Tabarca to Santa Pola swim attracts more than 1,400 competitors for charity

More than 1,400 swimmers came together on the Costa Blanca at the weekend for one of Spain’s most iconic open water events, combining sporting achievement with fundraising for a worthy cause. The annual Tabarca to Santa Pola sea crossing once again attracted competitors from across Spain and overseas, while supporting the work of Cruz Roja and highlighting the growing popularity of open water swimming.

Swimmers unite to support charity in the Tabarca to Santa Pola race

More than 1,400 swimmers took to the Mediterranean on Sunday as the 29th Tabarca to Santa Pola sea crossing combined sport and fundraising for charity on 5 July.

A total of 1,405 competitors completed the 5.9-kilometre swim from Tabarca Island to Varadero Beach in Santa Pola, with every entry supporting Cruz Roja.

The annual event is one of Spain’s best-known open water swimming competitions and attracts competitors from across the country and overseas.

Swimmers travelled from throughout the Valencian Community, Madrid, León, Guadalajara and Albacete, while participants also came from Italy, Argentina and the Netherlands. The event welcomed competitors of all ages, from teenagers to swimmers in their 80s.

Conditions were almost perfect, with calm seas and no jellyfish, allowing competitors to enjoy the crossing between Tabarca Island and Santa Pola in ideal conditions.

Record demand for one of Spain’s favourite sea swims

Demand for places continues to increase, with more than 2,700 people applying to take part. For safety reasons, the field was limited to 1,405 swimmers, with places allocated by ballot.

The popularity of the event reflects the continued growth of open water swimming in Spain, with athletes travelling long distances for the opportunity to complete one of the country’s most respected sea crossings.

Although prizes were awarded to the fastest competitors, many participants said their main aim was simply to complete one of Spain’s most famous open water swims while supporting a worthwhile cause.

Looking ahead to the 30th anniversary

Plans are already underway for next year’s open race, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary.

With its combination of spectacular coastal scenery, strong community spirit and charitable fundraising, the Tabarca to Santa Pola crossing has become a highlight of the Costa Blanca’s sporting calendar, attracting both experienced competitors and first-time participants year after year.