Santorini hosts elite open water swimming competition with Olympians

The Santorini Experience open water swimming event took place on October 16‑18 at the caldera of the Greek island, with the race starting from the volcano. The competition featured a field of world‑class athletes, including German Olympian and double world champion Leonie Beck, Italy’s Olympian Mario Sanzullo and world champion Barbara Pozzobon, and Hungarian two‑time Olympian Anna Olasz. Coaches Fabrizio Antonelli, named Italy’s Coach of the Year in 2021, and Greece’s technical director Nikos Gemelos were also present, with Gemelos having designed the volcanic course.

Organisers highlighted the favorable October conditions: average maximum air temperature around 25 °C and sea temperature above 22 °C, providing warm water without the intense summer heat. These climate factors, combined with the dramatic volcanic backdrop, make Santorini an ideal venue for elite open water swimming gatherings.