‘Cassius Zeus’ Race Marks 15 Years with New ‘Cave Edition’ Route
Corfu, May 10, 2026 – The annual ‘Cassius Zeus’ race is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, returning with an innovative and demanding new route. Organizers have unveiled the ‘Cave Edition,’ a 25-kilometer course featuring an impressive 1,300 meters of positive elevation gain. This new option promises participants a unique blend of mountain running challenges and the unparalleled natural beauty of northern Corfu.
The course is described as captivating, uniting elements rarely found together in a single race: mountains, sea, caves, and traditional settlements. It is designed to appeal to athletes seeking more than a conventional road race.
A Challenging New Course for the 15th Anniversary
The ‘Cave Edition’ route, spanning 25 kilometers, is the highlight of this year’s event. It aims to offer a memorable experience that showcases the diverse landscape of northern Corfu. In addition to the main event, the race will also feature a 12.5-kilometer route and a 1,200-meter children’s race, allowing participation across various skill levels and age groups.
As in previous years, the event is expected to attract dozens of athletes from across Greece and internationally, underscoring the growing prominence of the ‘Cassius Zeus’ race over the years.
Race Details and Unique Features
The new route will commence at 08:30 AM from the port of Kassiopi. Runners will begin with a short asphalt section before ascending a winding path towards the old settlement of Podolakos. The course then leads to Peristerograva, one of Corfu’s largest caves, through which participants will pass – a rare experience for a running event.
The ascent continues to the summit of Matagona, at an altitude of 640 meters, offering panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, one of the most breathtaking points of the course.
Following the ascent, the route descends through forest trails and traditional villages such as Mengoula, Kremmitha, Kariotiko, and Agios Stefanos Sinion. Athletes will then enter the protected area of Erimitis, part of the NATURA network. Here, a coastal path winds through landscapes of exceptional natural beauty towards Avlaki, before concluding with the finish line back at the port of Kassiopi.
Promoting Corfu’s Natural and Cultural Heritage
This year’s ‘Cassius Zeus’ aims to further highlight the natural and cultural footprint of the region, combining technical ascents, fast descents, and demanding trails. The race transcends mere athletic competition, serving as a vibrant promotion of northern Corfu.
The event is organized by Spyros Pikoulas, an economics graduate from the University of Piraeus, who has a long history in sports journalism and event organization in Corfu.
Additional Information:
- Date: May 10, 2026
- Main Race Distance: 25 km (Cave Edition)
- Elevation Gain (Cave Edition): 1,300 meters
- Other Races: 12.5 km, 1,200 m (children’s race)
- Starting Point: Port of Kassiopi
- Key Features: Passage through Peristerograva cave, panoramic views from Matagona, routes through traditional villages and protected NATURA areas.
The ‘Cassius Zeus’ race continues to be a significant event for both local and international athletes, offering a unique opportunity to explore the diverse and stunning landscapes of Corfu.
