Agios Nikolaos on SUP Turns 10 with a Thrilling Double ICF Event

For its 10th anniversary, Agios Nikolaos on SUP returns as a premier international SUP event, set for May 3-4, 2025, as stop #3 of the ICF World Ranking circuit. But this year, there’s more—athletes can double the experience by racing in nearby Sitia on May 1-2, for another ICF event, making this a four-day SUP racing festival in Crete!

At the heart of it all is Mikhalis Farsaris, chief organizer of Agios Nikolaos on SUP and SUP representative for the Greek Federation, dedicated to growing the sport in Greece. In this interview, he shares insights into the event’s evolution, its impact on the Greek SUP scene, and what paddlers can expect from back-to-back ICF World Cup races in Agios Nikolaos and Sitia.

Get ready for a world-class showdown in the stunning waters of Crete!

Hello Mikhalis, can you introduce yourself, your role in organizing Agios Nikolaos on SUP, and your various roles in the Greek SUP racing scene?

Hi Mathieu! I am a surveying engineer involved in tourism, a father of two boys, and a longtime windsurfer. I have competed in races and organized a few local wave windsurfing events. Since 2008, I have been into SUP surfing. I took part in Greece’s first-ever SUP race in 2010 and have been the chief organizer of Agios Nikolaos on SUP since its first edition in 2015.

Since October 2024, I have served as the SUP representative for the Greek Federation, responsible for promoting our sport and raising the level of SUP events throughout Greece.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Agios Nikolaos on SUP, now a major international SUP race event. Congratulations! How has it evolved over the years?

Thanks! Back in 2015, I was appointed chairman of a municipal company managing the local marina and public beaches. The city decided to host various sporting events to promote the area, which led to the launch of our race at the national level.

To attract international attention, we partnered with the Eurotour for a few years. However, we always incorporated all three disciplines, not just long-distance races. In the early years, our race also served as a national qualifier for the ISA World Championship.

Later, the Greek Federation of Canoe-Kayak officially and legally took on the representation of SUP in Greece. Since the ISA had no official presence at the national level, we began collaborating with this federation. This allowed us to host our first ICF World Cup in 2023, followed by another in 2024.

Can you tell us about the history of the club behind the event and its role in growing SUP in Crete and Greece?

The local club was established after we began organizing the first races. As the sport gained visibility, the local community wanted to get involved. The club has been active during the summer months since 2016, and from 2021 onward, kids have been training year-round.

We were fortunate to have Nancy Karaindrou, a young racer who became a highly successful SUP coach. Today, we have nearly 100 children participating in the summer and around 10–15 during the winter.

In 2024, two of our junior members, Manos Farsaris and Anna Firfiri, earned spots on Greece’s national team, representing the country at the ICF World Championships in the USA. The junior men’s team secured 3rd place in the technical race, while the junior women finished 7th.

Notably, our race has significantly elevated the level of SUP racing in Greece. Greek clubs have expanded their participation, while many individual racers from a decade ago—who were not part of a club—have since stopped competing.

Agios Nikolaos on SUP has been part of the ICF World Ranking circuit for three years now. What does this recognition mean for the event?

Agios Nikolaos, named after St. Nicholas, the patron saint of seafarers, has grown into a world-class event, gaining recognition from both the ICF and the international SUP community. This allows us to promote our region as a prime tourist destination to a global audience.

Our collaboration with the ICF has been mutually beneficial. This year, it has played a key role in the evolution of the ICF World Ranking Series, which is set to become a full-fledged tour. As highlighted in the latest ICF announcement, “Abu Dhabi will not only see competitors battle for world titles but also contend for the overall ICF SUP World Ranking Series crowns.”

This year, you’re introducing a second event in Sitia, which is an ICF World Cup, effectively offering two events in one from May 1 to May 4. How did this collaboration come about, and what can athletes expect from these four days of racing in two locations?

Sitia’s SUP club was formed as a direct offshoot of Agios Nikolaos, thanks to Nancy moving there. They have built a vibrant SUP community and maintain a strong connection with our club.

With support from the local municipality and government, Sitia secured funding to host a race. When we had positive discussions with the ICF about introducing an overall podium for the World Ranking Series winners, we knew this would be a win-win for both of our events.

Now, we have four races in four days across two cities just an hour apart! Athletes can gather valuable world ranking points while enjoying a mix of race conditions—flat-water sprints and technical races in Sitia, and in Agios Nikolaos, a technical race that may feature waves along with our now-classic long-distance race, which finishes in the town’s iconic lake.

Agios Nikolaos on SUP is also part of the Greek national series. Can you briefly introduce the federal series?

The Greek national series follows the same rules as the ICF World Ranking Series and is called the National Cup. Athletes can earn points from four events, but only their top three results will count.

The overall winners will form our national team and represent Greece at the World Championships in the fall.

Beyond the Races, why Agios Nikolaos on SUP is a must-visit Event?

Agios Nikolaos, located on the stunning island of Crete, is set to host an ICF SUP World Ranking Race from May 3-4, drawing participants and visitors from around the world. Beyond the excitement of the competition, the event offers an incredible opportunity to experience the beauty, culture, and hospitality of Crete. Here’s what makes it so special:

Breathtaking Views: The race takes place in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Agios Nikolaos, Plaka, Elounda, and Kalo Chorio, offering a picturesque backdrop that enhances the racing experience.

Global SUP Community: Participants connect with paddlers from around the world, fostering friendships and camaraderie within the sport.

Local Attractions: Visitors can explore Lake Voulismeni, the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, and the historic island of Spinalonga, immersing themselves in Crete’s rich history and culture.

Accommodation Special Offers: Event organizers provide exclusive accommodation deals for participants. Attendees are encouraged to register early to secure discounts at local hotels and apartments.

Authentic Cretan Cuisine: Visitors can indulge in fresh seafood, traditional olive oil, and local wines at cozy seaside tavernas. Crete is renowned for its culinary heritage, making dining an essential part of the experience.

Outdoor Adventures: Beyond SUP, Agios Nikolaos offers a range of activities, including: Hiking in the Gorge of Kritsa, Diving and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, Sailing and beach relaxation in Elounda and Istron or Rock climbing and nature excursions.

More Than Just a Race

Agios Nikolaos on SUP is not just a race—it’s an experience. Combining high-level competition with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and incredible hospitality, it promises an unforgettable adventure for all participants and visitors. Whether you’re racing, spectating, or simply exploring, this event offers a unique way to immerse yourself in the beauty of Crete while enjoying the sport you love.

Now make sure to register!

Agios Nikolaos on SUP – May 3 & 4
https://agiosonsup.gr/register/
Sitia SUP Race – May 1 & 2
https://sitianc.gr/