The "Periclis Demetriou" Running Club was founded in honor of the distinguished Cypriot long-distance athlete Periclis Demetriou, with the aim of promoting the philosophy of mass participation in sports and fostering a love of running and a healthy lifestyle.

​

Periclis Demetriou was born in 1914 in the village of Kallepeia, in the Paphos district. From an early age, he showed his passion for sports, beginning with football and later moving to track and field. In 1929, he moved to Nicosia, where he worked by day and trained alone at night—an inspiring testament to his dedication.

​

He began competing in athletic events in 1933, focusing mainly on endurance and middle-distance races. His athletic pursuits, however, extended far beyond running: he also excelled in cycling, swimming, boxing, mountaineering, and more. Among his many accomplishments, he won first place in the marathon at the Pan-Cyprian Games in both 1961 and 1966.

​

Periclis Demetriou’s impact was felt internationally as well. At the Munich Marathon, at the remarkable age of 69–71, he finished 4th (1983), 2nd (1984), and 3rd (1985)—a shining example that passion and determination have no age limit.

​

Periclis Demetriou passed away on October 11, 1987, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. The club was founded to keep alive the spirit and the values he embodied: dedication, consistency, mental fortitude, and a true sporting spirit.

​

Today, through our activities, races, and events, we continue to inspire new generations of runners, honoring our history and proudly carrying the name and ethos of Periclis Demetriou.