Campaign “Reach Where You Can’t”

The good luck charm of 2024 is inspired by the extraordinary effort of Michalis Kalarakis in his quest to qualify for the 2024 Summer Paralympic Games in Paris.

Michalis was born in Heraklion, Crete, and began therapeutic horseback riding at the age of 9 as part of his rehabilitation after being diagnosed with spastic quadriplegia. Shortly after, riding at the Equestrian Academy of Crete under coach Marianna Grammatikaki, he earned his AIA and in 2010, he amazed everyone by securing the 1st place in the National Dressage Championship, in the A3 category, competing against 27 able-bodied athletes!

Since then, with persistence, discipline, and the unwavering support of his coach, he has achieved numerous accolades both in Greece and abroad, all while completing his studies in Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, graduating with honors.

His journey toward qualification began in 2022 at the World Championship in Herning, where he finished in 11th place with a personal record. Early in 2023, at the European Championships in Riesenbeck, he placed 9th, and just recently, at the World Championship in Wellington, alongside his horse Eros, he conquered the top spot in all three categories he participated in.

The good luck charm of 2024 is more than just a piece of jewelry. It embodies a dream, an effort of years, that with the support of all of us, can become a reality.

The quote by Nikos Kazantzakis: “Reach where you can’t”, serves as the motto of the campaign—demonstrating that the impossible can become possible!

Part of the proceeds will go towards covering the costs of Michalis’ and Eros’ preparation for the upcoming competitions.