Meet Dimitris, who employed running as an escape from frustration after returning to Cyprus, but it quickly became a path to self-discovery and growth.

In 2023, his passion led him to participate in several races, including the Half Marathon of the Radisson Blu Larnaka International Marathon.

Beyond personal achievement, Dimitris finds purpose in supporting charitable causes like the Karaiskakio Foundation through running. This year, running remains his way to push limits and positively impact the community.

What initially made you interested in running?

I started running when I returned to Cyprus after many years abroad. I was feeling disappointed and frustrated and needed an escape.

Tell us your story, why you run.

After my first runs, I felt a sense of achievement that made me want to run more and more. Eventually, I signed up for my first 5km race and earned my first medal. That feeling was so addictive, I couldn’t stop!

Have you ever participated in any races or marathons for a charitable cause? What motivated you to combine running with supporting a cause?

2023 was my first year of racing, and I participated in every race I could attend, with my biggest achievement being the Radisson Blu Larnaka International Marathon Half Marathon. The event was a double race for me. Although I had signed up for the half marathon, I also convinced my colleagues to join me in the corporate 5km race. We all came together to support the Karaiskakio Foundation.

Please give us more details if you are running for a specific cause this year.

This year, I’m running to defeat my old self again, push past my limits, and continue evolving.