Panthracian games of Komotini in the interwar period

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to collect and process data on the Panthracian games of Komotini in the interwar period. As sources were used archives and statutes of associations, archival documents from the SEGAS, articles of sports and political newspapers and magazines. With the significant increase in numbers that occurred when refugees from Asia Minor settled in the region (1920), athletics occupied an important role in the sporting life of the border region of Thrace. The Panthracian games began to be held in 1923 with leader the sporting General Governor of Thrace, Mr. Dasios. The purpose of the games was the gathering and initiation of spectators and especially the youth in sports. In the early years of the Panthracian games, we find local character appeared with specific regulations, like the Thracian relay race (1500m., 800m., 400m., 200m., 100m.), the stone throwing (lithovolia) (weight of stone=7,250 kgr). The sporting activity of the clubs in the region, since the establishment of the Panthracian games in the interwar period, was undoubtedly remarkable for provincial standards. The great performance of the athletes and the winning of championships shows the enthusiasm of the citizens for sport, who, using these games as a springboard, developed a remarkable sporting activity at national and international level. Also, the holding of the games served a national purpose, boosting morale and strengthening relations between cities that were incorporated into Greece after 1920.