Torrevieja: Hundreds unite for Alzheimer and fibromyalgia charities

Sport and solidarity brought hundreds of people together in Torrevieja over the weekend, with two events raising awareness and support for local charities. Nearly 400 people joined AFA Torrevieja’s annual Solidarity Race and Walk, while La Siesta Park hosted its first charity petanque championship in aid of ASIMEPP and people living with fibromyalgia.

Nearly 400 join AFA Solidarity Race and Walk

Nearly 400 people filled the streets of Torrevieja on Sunday, October 4, as the city came together for AFA Torrevieja’s XI Solidarity Race and Walk.

Runners, walkers, families and supporters gathered outside the association’s headquarters for an event designed to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s and help AFA continue supporting people living with the disease and their families.

The programme offered a 7.5-kilometre race and a 3.5-kilometre route, giving participants of different ages and abilities the chance to take part.

Antonio Ortigosa and Janice Ramirez claimed victory in the main 7.5-kilometre event, while Xavi Lledo, of C.A. Crevillent, and Irina Evsiukova topped the 3.5-kilometre competition.

But the morning’s biggest achievement was the turnout itself, with close to 400 people joining a cause that touches families across the Costa Blanca and beyond.

Volunteers and local supporters helped create a warm atmosphere throughout the Sunday morning.

The race brought AFA’s programme marking World Alzheimer’s Day to a fitting close after weeks of awareness, solidarity and community activities.

For AFA Torrevieja, the event was about far more than crossing a finish line. It was another opportunity to stand beside families affected by Alzheimer’s, keep the condition visible and ensure those facing it know they do not have to face it alone.

Charity petanque championship supports ASIMEPP

Sport and solidarity came together at La Siesta Park in Torrevieja on Saturday, October 3, for the first charity petanque championship supporting ASIMEPP.

Organised by Phoenix Petanque Club in collaboration with ASIMEPP, the tournament brought players, volunteers and supporters together to raise funds and awareness of fibromyalgia.

Members of ASIMEPP also took to the courts, with several trying petanque for the first time and joining the competition alongside more experienced players.

Fundraising continued away from the matches with a charity barbecue organised by Phoenix, while Kiosko Nova Park supported the event and made an additional donation to ASIMEPP.

People unable to attend could contribute through the event’s Dorsal 0 donation scheme. Christmas lottery tickets and handmade items produced through ASIMEPP’s craft workshop were also available during the day.

ASIMEPP works throughout the year to support people living with fibromyalgia and improve their quality of life through activities, assistance and greater awareness of the condition.

Volunteers from the association helped throughout the event, while representatives from several Torrevieja council departments also supported the initiative.

The championship provided another opportunity to highlight ASIMEPP’s work while introducing some of its members to a new sporting activity.