Historic old town streets ready for moonlight Velez-Malaga running event

Night-time athletics will transform central Velez-Malaga this summer as local runners warm up and stretch for the eighth year of the “Corre tu Historia” town race on Saturday, August 8.

Plaza de las Carmelitas is going to become the central hub for the entire occasion, hosting both the starting line and finish area for every category taking place throughout the evening. Combining fitness with a tour of ancient streets, this after-dark gathering gives residents and visitors a completely different way to experience the historic heart of town under the stars.

Action begins with evening kids’ races

Younger athletes will lead the charge early on, starting right at 9pm with a 1,200-metre sprint designed for under 12s and under 14s.

Fifteen minutes later, at 9.15pm, the under-10s competitors step up for their 800-metre dash through the town. Tiny feet take over at 9.25pm, when the under-8s age bracket tackles a quick 500-metre course. These early events bring a proper family atmosphere to the town centre before the main adult show gets under way.

Main 5K Event and Midnight Celebrations

Adults and teens from under-16s and upwards hit the pavements at 9.45pm for the flagship 5,000-metre main event.

Capacities have been capped at 600 total entrants to make sure everyone enjoys a safe, well-organised run around the classic monuments. Refreshment points along the route and at the finish line keep runners hydrated, while commemorative technical t-shirts await all registered participants. Judging by previous events, adult runners will have little trouble finding their own refreshments after the race.

Prizes and silverware will be handed out back at Plaza de las Carmelitas around 10.45pm once all runners cross the line. Trophies await the top three overall male and female finishers, together with podium medals for every separate category. Junior runners in the under 8s and under 10s groups also collect custom finisher medals to mark their big effort.

Taking place in Velez-Malaga, this nocturnal sports gathering continues to be one of the summer’s highlights on the local calendar in the wider Costa del Sol region.