Chania’s 17th “Ypercopeli” charity triathlon returns to Agioi Apostoloi on October 11
The Chania-based volunteer association “Orizontas” will hold the 17th edition of its “Ypercopeli” charity triathlon on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Agioi Apostoloi. The event raises funds to support children and adults living with cancer.
The association said the event is organized with the involvement of its athletic team, its volunteers, the Municipality of Chania, security services and volunteer groups.
Race schedule
The day begins with the “Ypercopelaki,” an amateur triathlon for children, at 11:00 (arrival from 10:00), followed by the main “Ypercopeli” triathlon for adults at 12:30 (arrival from 11:30). Both are amateur, non-competitive races without official rankings or timing, described by organizers as races “for life” rather than for victory.
In the afternoon, at 16:30, the “Open Horizons” (“Anoichtoi Orizontes”) event will take place — a 5km dynamic walk with no timing or ranking. Participants pay a €5 entry fee, which they can direct to a charity or foundation in the city of their choice; participating organizations are to be announced. A “pilafi” party with souvlaki, beer, soft drinks and music will follow on the beach.
Participation details
According to the organizers, the “Ypercopelaki” costs €10, donated to Orizontas, and covers a 50m swim, 2km cycling leg and 1km run. Entry includes a commemorative t-shirt, medal, certificate and souvenir gifts. The registration deadline is September 18, 2026.
The main “Ypercopeli” triathlon costs €15, donated to Orizontas, and covers a 600m swim, 21km cycling leg and 6km run. Entry includes a technical t-shirt, cap, bib number, medal, certificate and souvenir gifts. Group entries of three to four people are also available, with or without a participant with disabilities. The registration deadline is also September 18, 2026, which the organizers say secures t-shirt sizing once the donation is submitted.
Virtual race option
For those unable to attend in person, a virtual version of the race will run from October 11 to October 20, 2026. Participants can choose their own day, time and location — in Greece or abroad — to complete the same distances as the in-person triathlon: a 600m swim, 21km cycling leg and 6km run, recorded via a smartwatch, fitness band or phone app, with an optional photo.
The virtual entry fee is €15, donated to Orizontas, plus €5 for equipment shipping. It includes a technical t-shirt, cap, bib number, medal, certificate and souvenir gifts, and also allows group entries of three to four people, who may complete their legs together or split them across different locations in Greece or abroad. The registration deadline is September 18, 2026.
About the Orizontas association
The Orizontas Association for Volunteer Support was founded in 2004 in Chania, certified under Greece’s National Registry of Private Sector Bodies and the Special Registry of Volunteer Non-Governmental Organizations. It is a non-profit organization focused on supporting children and adults with cancer, including financial assistance, accommodation at six guesthouses it operates in Athens, travel tickets to and from treatment locations, and coverage of medical costs not reimbursed by insurance funds. The association also promotes volunteerism through events, awareness campaigns and educational programs.
