La Cala Lions Walkathon: Join hundreds for a day of fun and fundraising

The Costa del Sol’s community calendar is getting ready for one of its biggest annual gatherings, as hundreds prepare to take part in the eighth La Cala de Mijas Lions Walkathon on Sunday, November 8.

Organised by the La Cala de Mijas Lions Diabetic Support Group, the 5km sponsored walk is about much more than exercise. This year’s event has an especially important purpose: helping fund efforts to identify diabetes within the local population, where concerns about increasing cases make early detection more important than ever.

Under the message ‘Early Detection Saves Lives’, the Lions are encouraging residents, visitors and families to join the walk, collect sponsorship and support a cause that could make a real difference. The International Diabetes Federation’s early action campaign reinforces the importance of identifying diabetes sooner and improving access to testing and care.

Previous Lions initiatives have already demonstrated the value of this work. At a Mijas Health Day event, their nurses carried out 101 glucose tests in just three hours, as reported by Euro Weekly News.

Walk, make friends and enjoy the coastline

Starting at 10am from La Cala’s boardwalk, the 5km route offers participants the chance to explore the newly constructed and refurbished stretches of Mijas’ increasingly popular coastal walkway. The latest Senda Litoral improvements have made even more of the coastline accessible.

Whether walking with friends, bringing the family or simply looking to meet new people, the day promises to be a wonderful social occasion, with the added satisfaction of raising money for charity.

Anyone wishing to boost their fundraising can download the official sponsorship form, collect donations from friends, family and colleagues, and bring their completed form to the event.

A grand market and entertainment until late

Celebrations will continue at Torreon Square and along the boardwalk, where a grand market featuring around 40 stalls will offer plenty to browse.

Live entertainment from 11am includes Sean Murray, the Phoenix Singers, Laura Elen, La Trilla Folk and the Drang drum troupe, with a warm-up led by Lisa. Free health checks will also be available.

Entry to the market is free, and everyone is welcome. Registration of interest is available at the Lions Charity Shop in La Cala and Ibex in Fuengirola.

Come along, bring your friends and help the Lions make this year’s Walkathon their biggest and most successful yet.