The medal presented on Monday is the result of a two years project with many people involved and the aim is to highlight the cultural aspect of the race and its Greek roots, SEGAS noted.

"Runners know very well that the medal is an object reflecting strong emotions for anyone who is running. It is a memento to keep at home for life," Panagopoulos said, thanking the creators for donating their works.

"They are the most important among our volunteers this year, as well as Mr. Kizis," he said referring to Fasianos and Varotsos.

"We, artists, are trying hard to be part of everyday life. We contribute on our part in this significant event which unites the entire planet in Athens," Varotsos said, speaking on behalf of 84-year-old Fasianos as well.

"During the course the runner doesn't carry only himself, but an entire culture on his shoulders, he carries a message," he added, underlining the cultural aspect of the event.

On his part, Kizas, explained how he came up with the idea of suggesting to update the event's medal.

Five years ago one of his friends participated and we was waiting for him at the finish line.

"There was so much joy and emotion in his eyes. I looked around and everybody, athletes and ordinary people like us, had the same happiness and emotion in their eyes. I had the idea one day looking at his medal which he had left in my office wondering how we could give this medal a more modern style," he told the press conference.

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