Sunday 22 January saw the XXXI Santa Pola Half Marathon which started and finished on Calle Fernando Perez Ojeda on the harbour front. This run is widely regarded as one of the best half marathons in Spain, if not the best, and we are fortunate to have it here in our neighbourhood.

There were a number of runners from Gran Alacant taking part, some for the first time and some like Rob Buchan who is a veteran of 16 in Santa Pola. Ian, Graeme and Geoff flew into to Gran Alacant specifically to take part, whereas others, who are here in GA already have enjoyed some good weather in which to train and prepare for the run.

The race always attracts a good international field of runners, with the Africans invariably winning both the male and female categories (At the time of writing I don’t have the official results).

I mention this every year, and I make no apology this year, but the race wouldn’t go ahead if it wasn’t for the main sponsors, Ayuntamiento de Santa Pola and Diputacion de Alicante plus the many other local sponsors. Additionally there is an amazing amount of voluntary work undertaken  by the main organisers Club Atletismo Santa Pola, and not forgetting the fantastic support on the day by the residents of Gran Alacant and Santa Pola who together with the travelling families and friends of the competitors, who travel here from near and far, create an amazing atmosphere for the runners, clapping and shouting encouragement as we went by them. This is a big day in the calendar of events for Santa Pola whether a runner or spectator and is always a great success.

And as the bands stopped playing, the last runners crossed the finishing line to collect their medals and refreshments.

10, 000 weary but satisfied runners made their way home to a well earned rest – Until the next time!!!

Incidentally, if anyone is interested in a more structured training and coaching programme, Club Atletismo Santa Pola, based in the football ground in Santa Pola, have regular training sessions on Tuesday and Thursday every week. I can put you in contact if you contact me.  

In the meantime if you are visiting the area and want to run with someone, please get in touch with Geoff on 0044/ 7476851356

Diary Dates:

12 March 2023: Elche 21k 

(www.mediaelche.es)