Previous races

Discover the Race’s History

The Ioannina Lake Run was founded in 2007 by A.O. Poseidon Ioannina, with the strong support of the Municipality of Ioannina and the Region of Epirus, as part of a broader vision to establish major sporting events in the city. Its primary goals were to promote mass participation in sport, showcase the region, and protect its natural wealth — with Lake Pamvotida at its heart.

The idea for the race was born from the strong desire of independent local runners to create an event that would highlight both the lake and the city of Ioannina. The race was inspired and led by the late Giorgos Danikas (1957–2010), together with his friend and fellow runner Nikos Michos. Their initiative was embraced by the entire A.O. Poseidon Ioannina community, leading to the creation of the Long Distance Running Department and laying the foundations for the event’s future growth.

In the years that followed, the race expanded internationally and adopted the name Ioannina Lake Run, while the parallel events organized each September have consistently reflected the triptych “Culture – Sport – Environment.”

Participation from athletes across Greece and abroad has steadily increased, establishing the Ioannina Lake Run as one of the region’s most important sporting events and among the leading road races in the country, distinguished by its high organizational standards, strong level of participation, and a uniquely scenic course alongside Lake Pamvotida.

The 14th Ioannina Lake Run in 2020 was recorded as the first mass participation road race held during the pandemic and one of the few outdoor sporting events to take place in Greece at that time. This was made possible by the implementation of an innovative health protocol, applied with consistency, helping pave the way for the safe return of sport to normality.

In 2026, the Ioannina Lake Run celebrates 20 years of continuous presence, honoring everyone who has contributed to its journey — participants, volunteers, organizers, and institutional supporters who have stood by the event throughout the years. Two decades that confirm the Ioannina Lake Run as a lasting point of reference for sport, the city, and Lake Pamvotida.

Statistical graph all the races of Ioannina Lake Run