On Tuesday, March 18th, the Run for Autism press conference was held at the Ayia Napa Marina Event Centre to reveal the medal for the Run for Autism Half Marathon, which will take place on Sunday, April 6, 2025. The medal design was created by the 6th-grade students from the Gymnasium-Lyceum of Peace and Freedom, Deryneia-Sotira.

The medal showcases pieces of a puzzle, a universal symbol for Autism. One piece features the Ayia Napa Church, while the waves represent the starting beach of the half marathon. In the center, a runner is depicted, and on the right, the Ayia Napa Marina Event Center is featured. At the top, a dove symbolizing peace and prosperity is displayed. 

Mr. Louis Loizou, volunteer and coordinator of the event, expressed his gratitude to Ayia Napa Marina and the Municipality of Ayia Napa, especially the Mayor, for their continued support. He also emphasized the growth of the event since its inception and noted how the involvement of students in creating this year’s medal highlights the collaboration between businesses, volunteers, and the local community. 

A new initiative this year comes from InterNapa College, which has developed the Blue Sprint mocktail to raise awareness for Autism. This special drink will be sold on the day of the event, with all proceeds benefiting the Famagusta Autism Support Association. 

Ms. Trish Browne, from Blue Surf Properties a major sponsor and volunteer, shared her pride in being part of the event and praised the strong community involvement. Mayor, Mr. Christos Zannetou reiterated the Municipality’s ongoing support for the event and other initiatives for children with Autism, including the development of a new Autism Center. 

The students, led by Ms. Andriani Yasemi, spoke about how excited they were to contribute to such an important cause. After the conference, attendees had the opportunity to sample the Blue Sprint mocktail.