OlympusMan Half Marathon Trail Run

Something a little different today. An event that wasn't on two wheels, but instead two feet!

Last weekend I completed the OlympusMan Half Marathon trail run in Cyprus, and it was an unforgettable experience. As someone who usually spends weekends cycling and enjoying the odd bit of mountain roads, this event was a chance to take on a new kind of adventure and see the landscape from a different perspective. Running offers a different pace and mindset, allowing for a unique connection with the terrain, although I was pretty shattered to really enjoy it a lot of the time.

On top of Mount Olympus after 2 hours

The OlympusMan trail run is known for its challenging yet beautiful routes through Cyprus’s Troodos Mountains, a region famed for rugged peaks and sweeping vistas. The race itself takes runners through intense elevation changes, a true departure from the rolling ascents of a typical cycling route. The half marathon route is a 21-kilometer journey that includes more than a few steep, lung-busting climbs—totalling roughly 450 meters of elevation gain. The race finished at the top of Mount Olympus, which after almost 2 hours of running, absolutely killed me!

When running, each uphill and downhill takes on a whole new meaning. The ascent demands complete focus and feels more personal without the aid of a bike, but the views made every step worth the effort.

Those views make it all worth it!

Cyprus’s Troodos region is truly stunning, with rugged mountain terrain and dense pine forests that open up to reveal views of distant seas and scattered villages. The experience was enhanced by Cyprus's autumn weather. The temperatures were ideal for a long-distance trail run, cool and crisp yet with plenty of sunshine to brighten up the day. For much of the course, the trail runs along exposed ridges with panoramic views of the island below. Unlike cycling, where speed often requires intense focus on the path ahead, running allowed me to slow down and soak in these scenic vistas. The peaceful surroundings, natural beauty, and silence—except for the sound of feet on gravel and my own breathing—made for a contemplative experience.

The OlympusMan event offers several distance options for runners, making it accessible to different fitness levels and running experiences. In addition to the half marathon, participants could opt for a full marathon, or go all-out with an insane 72-kilometer ultra. The range of options added to the event’s welcoming atmosphere, bringing together a diverse community of runners, each looking for their own mountain challenge.

This was some of the 'easier' trail

Despite my regular adventures on the trails with my bike, running brought its own unique demands and rewards. On a bike, it’s easy to shift gears to adjust for steep terrain, but in running, it’s all on you. Each uphill stretch demanded perseverance, and every descent challenged my balance and endurance in ways that are completely different from cycling. The physical effort combined with the mental focus made crossing the finish line incredibly rewarding.

The OlympusMan trail run was a reminder that challenging oneself in new ways brings growth and perspective. Whether it’s tackling a new kind of race or enjoying the beauty of a foreign landscape on foot rather than two wheels, there’s something special about taking on the unknown. This event not only tested my endurance but also gave me a fresh appreciation for the rugged beauty of Cyprus, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone seeking an adventurous, scenic, and physically rewarding experience.

Rich Johnson