What can one even say about the “Flying Doctor,” Argyrios Papathanasopoulos? He is the only Greek athlete with such a rich background of experiences in iconic races all around the world: Western States Endurance Run, Leadville 100, Vibram Hong Kong 100, Lavaredo Ultra-Trail, Ecotrail de Paris, and many more, as well as demanding stage races in deserts like the Marathon des Sables, Atacama Crossing, and Namib Desert Challenge.

Argyrios has decided to transform this deep knowledge of multi-day races into an organizational vision. In September 2026, he is organizing the Mythical Odyssey, a six-day stage race that is much more than just a competition. It is an event where athletic performance is combined with rich cultural and qualitative experiences, unfolding across three iconic regions of Greece with completely different atmospheres: Meteora, Mount Olympus, and Pelion.

Advendure, with Nikos Kostopoulos, meets Argyrios for an in-depth conversation that sheds light on every aspect of the Mythical Odyssey.

Adventure races are much more than just another endurance event. They are a challenge where nature becomes the playing field, the team transforms into a source of strength, and the endurance of each member becomes the ticket to the finish line. Their essence lies in the battle with the elements, in strategic planning, in navigating unknown trails that often determine the outcome even more than physical fitness itself.