On the morning of Tuesday, Greece had its first participant in the Winter Olympics with Apostle Angelis competing in the Men's Sprint Classic Cross-Country Skiing. The 33-year-old champion from Metsovo completed the 1.5 km course in 4:06.36, placing him 92nd overall and far from the top 30, which would have qualified him for the next phase of the competition. Despite his performance, the participation represents a vital milestone for Greek involvement in winter sports, showcasing the country's expanding presence on the Olympic stage.

Angelis's participation highlights the challenges faced by athletes from warmer climates when competing in winter sports, as they often have limited access to training facilities and competitive experiences compared to their counterparts from colder regions. The event itself was highly competitive, with Norwegian athlete Johannes Klæbo achieving the fastest time of 3:07.37, demonstrating his intent to chase another medal after previously winning in the relay event on Sunday. This performance sets a high benchmark for cross-country skiing at this year's Winter Games.

The significance of Angelis's appearance goes beyond just rankings; it reflects the broader aspirations of Greece in supporting winter sports and encouraging young athletes to participate in more diverse disciplines. As Greece continues to invest in winter sports, aspirations may rise for future international competitions, indicating a hopeful trajectory for Greek athletes aiming for a more substantial presence in future Winter Olympics.