From cancer fundraising to walking football: Sport brings Costa Blanca together

From raising vital funds for cancer research to bringing together football enthusiasts from across Europe, sporting events on the Costa Blanca continue to prove that sport can be about much more than competition. Recent and upcoming events in Elche and Torrevieja are helping to promote health, wellbeing and social connection while supporting important causes and encouraging people of all ages to stay active.

Purple power for Pancreatic Cancer Research

A sea of purple filled the streets of Elche on Sunday morning, June 14, as 1,380 runners and walkers took part in the city’s first-ever Race of the Cities Against Pancreatic Cancer.

Participants gathered in Plaça de Baix before setting off on the 4.5-kilometre route through some of Elche’s best-known landmarks, including the Palmeral and the banks of the River Vinalopó.

The event raised funds for pancreatic cancer research, with all proceeds going towards leading research projects aimed at tackling one of the deadliest forms of cancer.

According to organisers, more than 10,000 people in Spain are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year, and only around 10 per cent survive beyond five years.

Participants travelled from across Spain to take part, with competitors arriving from locations including Valladolid, Villajoyosa, Aspe and San Vicente. Blanca Sánchez of Elche claimed first place in the women’s category, while Pedro Viciosa Villa from Valladolid took the men’s title.

Although organisers have yet to reveal the final amount raised, funds came from race entries, merchandise sales, donations and sponsorship, including a private contribution of €3,000.

The success of the event means Alicante Province has become the first in Spain to host the race in two different cities, underlining growing support for pancreatic cancer research and awareness.

Walking Football returns to Torrevieja

With just over three months to go, registration is now open for the Iberian International Walking Football Club Cup, which will take place in Torrevieja on 24 and 25 September.

The tournament is expected to attract teams from across Spain, Europe and beyond for two days of competitive football and social activities on the Costa Blanca.

Organisers say the event is about more than results on the pitch, bringing together players from different countries while promoting fitness, friendship and the growing walking football community.

Team places are limited and clubs are being encouraged to register early to secure their spot.

Walking football has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, offering players the chance to continue enjoying the game in a slower-paced format while remaining active and competitive.

Sport for all ages and abilities

With international teams expected to attend, the tournament is set to be one of the biggest walking football events held in the region this year.

Walking football is a slow-paced, non-contact version of association football designed to be accessible to all, particularly older adults or those recovering from injury. The primary rule is that players must walk, never run or jog, with one foot on the ground at all times, helping to reduce injuries while keeping the game enjoyable and competitive.

For registration details and tournament information, visit spainwalkingfootball.com.