5th Mellon Run returns to Faneromeni on October 11, benefiting disability association

Preparations are in the final stage for the 5th Mellon Run, a charity sports event returning to Faneromeni on Sunday, October 11. The event is organized by the Association for People with Disabilities, Parents and Friends of South Crete “TO MELLON,” together with the Municipality of Phaistos.

The race is open to competitive runners as well as people who want to walk the course in nature. Organizers have also set aside a separate route for children, adding it to a wider calendar of events in Crete that combine athletics with charity fundraising.

Three routes for runners, walkers and students

Participants can choose from three distances depending on age and ability. The longest course covers 16.6 kilometers around the Faneromeni Dam and starts at 09:30, offering runners one of several outdoor experiences in Crete that highlight the island’s countryside. A 6.8-kilometer route, which can be run or walked, begins at 09:50, while a 1.9-kilometer course reserved for schoolchildren starts at 10:00.

Start and finish lines will be set up at the former Faneromeni Primary School, and electronic timing will be used on the two longer routes. Spaces are limited to 150 entries for the 16.6-kilometer course, 500 for the 6.8-kilometer course and 100 students for the 1.9-kilometer route.

Proceeds to benefit “TO MELLON” association

Entry costs 15 euros, with the full amount going to the Association for People with Disabilities “TO MELLON.” Participants will receive a commemorative medal, a sports T-shirt, a bag and a race number, and refreshments will be available during and after the event.

Registration remains open until the evening of October 6 and will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis given the limited number of spots. Organizers say music will play at the start and finish area throughout the event, which they describe as a day dedicated to sport, participation and giving back.