Athens, Athens - Sparta (Greece) - "Spartathlon". Spartathlon is the event that brings this deed to attention today by drawing a legend out of the depths of history. Described as the world's most grueling race, the Spartathlon runs over 245km form Athens to Sparta through tracks and paths, crosses vineyards and olive groves, climbs steep hillsides and, most challenging of all, takes the runners on the 1,200 meter ascent and descent of Mount Parthenio in the dead of night. This is the mountain, covered with rocks and bushes, on which it is said Pheidippides met the god Pan. The runner finish the race by touching King Leonidas foot in Sparta. www.spartathlon.gr