Grab those running shoes and walk into Costa Blanca charity events

A series of charity events, community activities and outdoor sporting challenges are taking place across the Costa Blanca over the coming weeks, offering residents and visitors plenty of ways to get involved while supporting good causes and enjoying the outdoors.

From charity walks and dog rescue volunteering to demanding night-time trail races, several local organisations are preparing for busy weeks ahead.

Elche to host race for pancreatic cancer

Elche will host the Race for Pancreatic Cancer for the first time on Sunday, 14 June.

The charity event aims to raise money for pancreatic cancer research while also increasing awareness of one of Spain’s deadliest forms of cancer.

Starting from Plaza de Baix, participants will follow a 4.5-kilometre route passing through some of Elche’s best-known areas, including the Palmeral and the riverbed.

Organisers have designed the event to be accessible for all ages and fitness levels. Participants can choose between a competitive race, a family-friendly walking route or a Nordic walking category.

The walking option is suitable for families, pushchairs and pets. Entry costs €13, while a special “Dorsal 0” option allows people to donate without taking part.

Online registration remains open until 11 June through carreracancerpancreas.es. Participants will also receive a commemorative purple campaign T-shirt.

Doctors warn that pancreatic cancer often remains undetected until advanced stages because early symptoms can easily be mistaken for minor health problems.

Organisers say the campaign has already raised more than €1 million across Spain and hope to continue growing with support from cities like Elche.

ALMA Hondon seeks volunteers for Saturday dog walks

ALMA Hondon Animal Rescue is also appealing for volunteers to help walk rescue dogs during its weekly Saturday morning outings.

Every Saturday from 10:00 AM until midday, volunteers take the dogs from the ALMA kennels in Hondon out for exercise, fresh air and attention away from the rescue centre.

The charity currently cares for around 15 dogs, and organisers say even occasional help can make a huge difference to the animals’ well-being.

There is no pressure for volunteers to attend every week, with people welcome to join whenever they are available. Walkers are coordinated through a dedicated WhatsApp group.

Founded in 2016, ALMA Hondon is run entirely by volunteers and rescues abandoned, neglected and abused animals across the Hondon Valley area.

More information can be found through the rescue’s Facebook page at facebook.com/ALMAhondon or via almahondon.com.

Cox prepares for popular night-time Castle Trail Race

Meanwhile, outdoor sports fans are preparing for the return of the Run Up Cox Castle Trail later this month.

The popular night-time trail race takes place on 30 May and promises an evening of endurance, mountain running and challenging terrain beneath the stars.

The race begins at 8:30 PM and guides participants along steep trails and demanding sections leading towards Cox Castle, one of the town’s best-known landmarks.

Organisers say the event is aimed at runners looking to test both their physical and mental limits, with the combination of darkness, elevation and uneven terrain helping the race build a strong reputation among trail-running enthusiasts.

Registrations remain open through alcanzatumeta.es, although organisers warn that places are limited and expected to sell out quickly.