In a world where youth is often celebrated, one man is proving that age truly is just a number. Ploutarchos Pourliakas, an 88-year-old Greek runner, has once again left spectators in awe after completing the 41st Athens Marathon, his 12th time conquering the iconic race.
Improving with Age
Pourliakas crossed the finish line at the historic Panathenaic Stadium in an impressive 6 hours and 31 minutes, shaving 18 minutes off his time from last year. “I feel younger than my 88 years,” he proudly declared, basking in the cheers of his family and grandchildren.
The octogenarian’s journey into running began at the tender age of 73, inspired by his son, an ultramarathon runner. Since then, he has become a fixture at the Athens Marathon, which traces the original route run by Pheidippides to announce the Greek victory over the Persians in the Battle of Marathon in 490 BC.
Defying Expectations
Pourliakas’ age often raises eyebrows among fellow runners, but he is quick to confront their doubts. “Why wouldn’t you believe it? We all can do it. As long as we want to,” he asserts, embodying the spirit of determination that has carried him through a dozen marathons.
Many struggle to believe his age when they see him run, Pourliakas said, but he directly confronts their disbelief. “Why wouldn’t you believe it? We all can do it. As long as we want to.”
The Secret to Longevity
So, what is the secret behind Pourliakas’ remarkable endurance? A balanced lifestyle, he reveals. “I’ve never smoked. I don’t indulge in excesses, I don’t drink, I don’t stay up late,” he explains. “I eat in a balanced way, everything but in moderation.”
His training routine is equally disciplined, with daily runs ranging from 4 to 5 kilometers and longer distances of up to 20 kilometers on weekends. However, he does allow himself one small indulgence: a daily shot of tsipouro, a local Greek spirit, which he consumes “not as a drink, but as a medicine.”
An Inspiration to All
Ploutarchos Pourliakas’ story serves as a powerful reminder that our limits are often self-imposed. His unwavering commitment to a healthy lifestyle and his passion for running have not only kept him fit but have also made him a role model for aspiring runners of all ages.
As he continues to defy expectations and improve his marathon times, Pourliakas is living proof that with determination and discipline, we can achieve extraordinary things at any stage of life. His message is simple yet profound: “We all can do it.”
A Symbol of Greek Pride
Pourliakas’ achievements have not gone unnoticed by his fellow Greeks. His participation in the Athens Marathon, which holds a special place in Greek history and culture, has made him a symbol of national pride.
According to a close source, “Ploutarchos embodies the resilience and determination that define the Greek spirit. He is an inspiration to us all, showing that age is no barrier to achieving greatness.”
As he crossed the finish line, Pourliakas was greeted by a roaring crowd, with many spectators holding up signs bearing his name and age. His family, who have supported him throughout his running journey, were there to embrace him, their faces beaming with pride.
Looking to the Future
With 12 Athens Marathons under his belt, one might wonder what’s next for Ploutarchos Pourliakas. When asked about his future plans, he simply smiled and said, “I’ll keep running as long as my body allows me to. The Athens Marathon has become a part of who I am.”
Indeed, Pourliakas has already set his sights on next year’s race, where he hopes to not only participate but also improve his time once again. His unwavering spirit and love for running serve as a powerful reminder that age is truly just a number and that with passion and perseverance, we can continue to achieve great things throughout our lives.
As the world continues to be inspired by Ploutarchos Pourliakas’ remarkable journey, one thing is certain: the legacy of this 88-year-old marathoner will endure, motivating generations of runners to push their limits and never give up on their dreams. In a world that often places limitations on what we can achieve as we age, Pourliakas is a shining example of the incredible feats we are capable of when we refuse to be defined by a number.
