Eastern Macedonia and Thrace honored by SEGAS for commitment to Greek athletics
The Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace was officially recognized by SEGAS during its Annual Awards Ceremony for Athletes and Coaches, highlighting the region’s sustained support for track and field and its role in hosting major sporting events across Greece.
Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis attended the ceremony, where the distinction underscored the region’s strategic investment in sports infrastructure and athlete development.
Recognition for Strategic Investment in Athletics
According to officials, the award reflects Eastern Macedonia and Thrace’s long-term policy to strengthen grassroots and elite athletics alike. The region has prioritized modern facilities, event organization, and institutional support, aiming to provide young athletes with opportunities to compete at both national and international levels.
“This recognition reflects a collective effort,” Topsidis said. “We are committed to hosting major competitions, supporting classical athletics in practice—not just in words—and offering our athletes the opportunities they deserve. The achievements of our people prove that Eastern Macedonia and Thrace possesses talent, quality, and individuals who work with consistency and vision.”
Strong Regional Presence at the Awards
The ceremony carried a strong Eastern Macedonia and Thrace imprint, as several leading figures in Greek athletics received distinctions:
Sarantis Tzelepis (Gümülcine) – Honored for his athletic achievements, alongside his coach Kostas Baniotis.
Valantis Kanotzian (Dedeağaç) – Recognized for his competitive performance.
Pigi Devetzi – Awarded as a leading athlete, reaffirming her long-standing contribution to Greek athletics.
Angelos Pavlakakis – His club, AO Kallistos, was named Greece’s top U16 club.
The awards ceremony spotlighted both established champions and rising young athletes, emphasizing continuity within Greek track and field.
Commitment to the Next Generation
Governor Topsidis expressed deep emotion witnessing the new generation of athletes gaining national recognition, describing them as “models of faith and perseverance.”
“They make us proud in every corner of Greece and the world,” he said, congratulating both athletes and their coaches.
The Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote sporting excellence and the Olympic ideal, signaling continued public investment in athletics as part of its broader development strategy.
