Competa hiking heroes give wheelchair-bound woman chance to return to peak

Locals in Competa will gather art the end of the month to help 23-year-old Xiomara Santisteban Domínguez reach Cerro Lucero peak once again. The young woman from the town suffered a serious accident that left her with a spinal injury and complex regional pain syndrome. Before that, she often hiked to the 1,774-metre peak with her family, sometimes at night to watch the sunrise. On Sunday, May 31, the expedition hopes to restore that cherished experience through teamwork and determination.

Club builds on record of charity hikes

Los Locos de la Colina has organised similar inclusive challenges in recent years. In one notable case, the club dedicated the Trail Canillas de Albaida – Reto Higinio to young Alba, who has Mowat-Wilson syndrome. Volunteers carried her in a Joëlette chair during the event, creating joyful memories for her family while raising funds. Such efforts reflect the group’s commitment to adaptive mountain sports across the Axarquia region.

Details of the upcoming ascent

Hikers from the club will transport Xiomara in a Joëlette all-terrain chair. The main support team starts from Plaza Almijara in Competa at 7am. Other participants drive to Puerto Blanquillo for an 8am start on a shorter route. Porters plan frequent relays to maintain pace on the demanding trail, which includes technical sections near the top. Organisers expect the full climb from Competa to take seven to eight hours.

Preparation and safety measures

Fitness levels matter because of the steep ascent. Participants receive two refreshment stops, though hikers must bring extra water for the upper sections. Insurance or a federative licence counts as essential. Those without one can arrange a one-day policy for five euros by emailing a copy of their identity document to the club. Registration through the Los Locos de la Colina website or the town hall helps track numbers for safety.

Local backing and emotional impact

Town officials and the Mancomunidad de la Axarquia have endorsed the project. The mayor of Competa and other representatives joined the presentation alongside Xiomara and her parents. After the descent, everyone meets for a snack at the town hall. Club members stress responsibility on this challenging route while focusing on Xiomara’s goal. Her words show deep gratitude for the chance to stand on the summit again.

Broader meaning for accessibility in mountains

Initiatives like this one continue a growing movement in Andalucia. Delivery of Joëlette chairs to clubs has enabled more people with reduced mobility to join trail events. In Competa, the climb represents resilience and community spirit in the Sierras Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park. Many view it as proof that barriers in outdoor activities can diminish through collective action.