Tourexpi
A Record-Breaking 10th Anniversary for the TUI Rhodes Marathon in first year of TUI as title sponsor
The
TUI Rhodes Marathon has celebrated its 10th anniversary with an unforgettable
edition, bringing together over 4,500 runners from 60 countries around the
world. This marks the first year of TUI as title sponsor, reinforcing the
company’s strong ties with Rhodes – one of its most cherished destinations –
and its commitment to sustainability.
The
event featured a range of races, from the full Marathon to a Half Marathon,
10K, 5K, and Kids Run, ensuring an inclusive experience for professional
athletes, amateur runners, and families alike. Among the participants were
around 500 TUI guest and over 300 TUI colleagues. Also present was Thomas
Ellerbeck, member of the TUI Group Executive Committee and Chief Sustainability
Officer, who supported and encouraged the runners. Meanwhile, Marco Ciomperlik,
CEO TUI Airline, and Peter Ulwahn,TUI Musement CEO, took part in the 10K race.
"Rhodes
holds a special place in TUI’s heart – not just as a beloved holiday
destination, but as a symbol of our commitment to sustainable tourism and
community engagement. The TUI Rhodes Marathon is more than a race; it’s a
celebration of the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty," said
Thomas Ellerbeck, Member of the TUI Group Executive Committee.
As
part of its efforts to support youth sports, TUI donated to the TUI Care
Foundation’s Junior Academy Rhodes. The funds will be used for educational
courses designed for children, covering topics such as Biology &
Oceanography, Upcycling & Recycling, Scuba Diving & Free Diving, and
Ocean Veterinary Science. Over 1,000 children participated in the Kids Run,
showcasing the next generation’s passion for sports and athletics.
Winners
of the TUI Rhodes Marathon 2025
The
TUI Rhodes Marathon concluded with an impressive display of athletic prowess,
with winners from various countries, reflecting the global nature of the
marathon in celebrating achievements of athletes worldwide. The top three
marathon finishers received awards presented by TUI, the title sponsor of the
event.
All
winners & times can be found here.
More
Than a Race: A Weekend of Culture, History, and Community
The
TUI Rhodes Marathon was the centerpiece of a weekend filled with cultural and
sporting events, reflecting the island’s deep-rooted connection to athletics.
Highlights included:
"In
the Footsteps of Kallipateira" Colloquium at the Museum of Modern Greek
Art, exploring the legacy of the first woman to enter the Olympic Games, a
Rhodian figure.
"The
Flame of Kallipateira" Theatrical Performance and Concert at the Ancient
Stadium, paying tribute to Rhodes’ sporting heritage.
The
TUI Rhodes Marathon Gala Dinner at Kalithea Springs brought together
representatives from the local community, hoteliers, the Rhodes Marathon, and
TUI to celebrate the race’s 10th edition. The event was also attended by George
Hatzimarkos, Governor of South Aegean, the Region of Cyclades and Dodecanese
island groups, and Alexander Basile Coliadis, Mayor of the Municipality of
Rhodes.
TUI’s
Drive for Sports Initiatives and Sustainable Tourism
The
sponsorship of the TUI Rhodes Marathon, which will continue at least until
2027, is a key part of TUI Group’s global strategy in sponsorship. This also
includes major international events such as the TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca in
October 2025, where the main sponsorship has recently been extended until 2030.
As
part of this strategy, the partnership with the Mediterranean Marathon League
was announced, an initiative that combines the excitement of travel with the
passion for running, strengthening TUI’s position in sports tourism and
expanding the range of experiences available to both new and existing
customers. Additionally, a multi-year partnership has been signed with the
International Socca Federation (ISF), becoming the title sponsor of
international Socca tournaments and highlighting the global appeal of football,
the world’s most popular sport.
Image
Credit: © TUI Group
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