The 15th Oreini Nafpaktia Cycling Races successfully promoted the region as a destination for alternative tourism and cycling.
15th Oreini Nafpaktia Cycling Races Successfully Conclude
The 15th Oreini Nafpaktia Cycling Races successfully promoted the region as a destination for alternative tourism and cycling.
Ano Chora, in mountainous Nafpaktia, hosted the event over the weekend of 30–31 August, with the area filled with bicycles and a vibrant atmosphere. The non-profit environmental organization “Prasino+Mple,” in collaboration with the Municipality of Nafpaktia and the Region of Western Greece, organized this annual event, which strengthens the region’s position as an alternative tourism destination, with cycling emerging as a key tourism activity.
The races attracted a large number of athletes and visitors, who enjoyed the unique road and mountain biking routes while also experiencing the area’s natural beauty and local hospitality. Year after year, the event highlights the potential of Oreini Nafpaktia in both sports and tourism sectors.
The event was honored by the presence of prominent figures from the cycling community, including world and national champion Ilias Periklis, now Federal Coach of the Hellenic Cycling Federation’s national teams. From the public sector, the President of the Regional Council of Western Greece, Mr. Christos Paisios, also attended, emphasizing the event’s significance.
On Saturday, 30 August, the 36km Road Race took place, with Mr. Alexandros Papageorgiou (Alpha Kallithea) winning the men’s category and Ms. Ioanna Salta (Titans) taking the women’s title. On Sunday, 31 August, the Mountain Biking Races of 40km and 26km followed, with Mr. Filippos Giannaros winning the 26km men’s race and Ms. Vasiliki Kotsalou triumphing in the women’s category.
The event underscores Oreini Nafpaktia as an ideal destination for alternative tourism and strengthens the connection between cycling and the development of the region’s tourism product.
