Race Website 

With the replacement of the Styga ski lift and the general preparation for upgrading the facilities of the Kalavryta Ski Centre nearing completion, we welcome the new 2024–2025 winter season, once again holding fast to our core vision of harmonising people with nature through outdoor activities and skiing. The Kalavryta Ski Centre, in collaboration with the Social Cooperative Enterprise DIAVA, presents the Helmos Mountain Biking Project. This is the tangible result of the enterprise’s efforts to integrate mountain biking into its range of offered services.

A series of actions, which began during the previous winter, have taken place to implement this initiative, such as the detailed mapping of surrounding trails in the Helmos mountain range, the clearing and maintenance of existing routes, and other actions so that the Kalavryta Ski Centre can host the final race of the Enduro Greek Series this season.

The Helmos Mountain Biking Project is not just a sporting event, but an opportunity to highlight the potential for developing the Helmos-Vouraikos National Park and UNESCO Global Geopark through alternative tourism. As part of this, we are hosting the final race of the Enduro Greek Series mountain biking cup. With a packed programme, stunning landscapes, and parallel activities, the event is expected to attract a large number of participants and spectators, further boosting the region of Kalavryta as a premier destination for mountain biking and alternative forms of tourism.

The race will take place from 18 to 20 October 2024 at the Kalavryta Ski Centre, with the majestic Helmos mountain providing the perfect backdrop for a demanding course that will test the athletes’ endurance and skills. Both athletes and spectators will have the opportunity to experience a thrilling spectacle that will raise adrenaline levels and give mountain trail enthusiasts the chance to enjoy a high-standard event. The initiative behind this collaboration aims to create a hub for biking trails and races centred around the Kalavryta Ski Centre, while also utilising the unique trails that Helmos and Kalavryta offer.

At the same time, it will pave the way for the creation of new routes, an organised Bike Park, and a general enhancement of mountain biking activities, which are already generating significant and growing interest in the wider region. For the first time in the centre’s history, the special stages of the race will pass through the Kalavryta Ski Centre facilities, while the new, modern “Achilles” cabin lift will serve the needs of the event, athletes, and spectators, giving the event a touch of European-level competitions.

After two successful years of the Helmos Mountain Festival, the Kalavryta Ski Centre has already paved the way to becoming a year-round outdoor sports and entertainment hub, offering the possibility of a dynamic and open centre for new challenges. With this cycling race, we are fulfilling the commitment made at the beginning of the current municipal administration in 2019 – to make the mountain accessible outside of the winter season with the goal of year-round operation in the future. The Helmos Mountain Festival was the first step in this direction, and we hope the Helmos Biking Project will become the second.

On Saturday, 19 October, in addition to ongoing trials and the kids’ race, attention will also turn to the information session on “Alternative Forms of Tourism in the Helmos-Vouraikos Geopark – Development Prospects.” The information session will take place at the Kalavryta Multipurpose Cultural Centre from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. The programme includes presentations by representatives of all organisations involved in this initiative. The talks will cover all the developmental prospects for the Kalavryta Municipality and the surrounding area through alternative forms of tourism, as well as historical details and future plans related to similar activities. Full details and programme will be published soon.

All these activities could not go ahead without the support of the Municipality of Kalavryta, the Region of Western Greece, and Achaia Development SA, who will contribute in various ways to the successful execution of such an event. Additionally, the valuable assistance and guidance from the Hellenic Protected Areas Management Organisation (OFYPEKA) in the protection and promotion of the Helmos-Vouraikos National Park and UNESCO Global Geopark will be an important asset for the event.

This is a major step forward for the Kalavryta Ski Centre and our Municipality, as we prepare to welcome athletes, spectators, and nature enthusiasts, inviting them to become part of a new tradition that aims to make its mark in the world of mountain biking and outdoor adventure. We invite you all to take part in this journey.

Race Course Description

The event includes four special stages with a total length of 10 kilometres, along with an additional stage for electric bikes (e-bikes). Participants will cover a total of 32 kilometres with an elevation gain of 1,400 metres. The variety of terrain conditions makes the routes even more challenging, testing both the physical stamina and technical prowess of the riders.

Friday, 18 October

Race Launch

The action kicks off on Friday, 18 October, with free practice, giving athletes the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the trails and adapt to the unique terrain conditions. On the same day, some lucky athletes will have the chance to attend a riding seminar led by RedBull’s world-renowned athlete Martin Maes, where they can improve their techniques with practical tips and guidance. The evening will close with a Best Trick competition, showcasing the most impressive stunts on the airbag in front of the chalet at the Kalavryta Ski Resort.

Saturday, 19 October

Parallel Events & Alternative Tourism

On Saturday, 19 October, in addition to continued practice and the Kids Race, attention will also turn to the workshop titled “Alternative Forms of Tourism in the Helmos-Vouraikos Geopark – Developmental Prospects”. The workshop will be held at the Kalavryta Cultural Centre and the Kalavryta Ski Resort from 10:30 to 15:00.

The programme includes speeches from key stakeholders such as the Region of Western Greece, the Municipality of Kalavryta, Achaia Development, the Kalavryta Hotel Association, and the Helmos-Vouraikos Geopark Management Body, where the region’s potential for development through alternative tourism will be presented. Following the speeches, participants can enjoy an informative cycling tour near the Ski Resort led by N.E.C.C.A, visit the Race Village of the event, or learn about Trekking Hellas’ activities in the area. The day will conclude with a party and DJ set, ensuring an exciting and fun-filled evening.

Sunday, 20 October

The Race Finale

The highlight of the event takes place on Sunday, 20 October, with the main race running from 08:15 to 14:30, where the top athletes will give their all to claim the title. The technical nature of the trails and the unique terrain conditions guarantee a thrilling and closely fought contest. Spectators will have the opportunity to watch the athletes from specially designated viewing points that showcase the most critical moments of the race.

Awards Ceremony and Closing

The three-day event will culminate with the awards ceremony at 15:00. Participation is limited to 250 athletes, with registration closing on Friday, 12 October. Spectators and visitors are expected to experience a unique event, not only through the exciting race but also through the parallel activities that highlight the cultural and natural heritage of the area.

Helmos Enduro 2024 is not just a sporting event, but also an opportunity to showcase the Helmos-Vouraikos Geopark’s development potential through alternative tourism. With a rich programme, stunning landscapes, and complementary activities, the event is expected to attract a large number of participants and spectators, enhancing the region’s reputation as a top destination for mountain biking and alternative tourism.

For more information and the detailed race programme, please visit diava.gr.

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Ride with Martin Maes