With all the entries sent off and the thrill of a fresh challenge, the inaugural edition of THE BLUE CHALLENGE was unveiled, an open water swimming event that will comprise a new course between Los Cristianos and El Palm Mar featuring two competitive distances of 5 and 1.5 kilometres, alongside events aimed at the younger participants.
The welcoming atmosphere and the enchantment of the natural surroundings where the event will occur were two key elements that particularly stood out during the presentation held at the UP of the Arona Gran Hotel, a stunning venue offering splendid views over a portion of the route that participants will need to navigate this Sunday (November 10).
The mayor of Arona City Council, Fátima Lemes, attended the event alongside the Councillor for Sports, Luis Sierra, the CEO of Spring Hoteles, Miguel Villarroya, and the event’s honorary patron, the distinguished open water swimmer David Meca.
Luis Sierra commenced the speeches by expressing gratitude to all involved parties, including the Tenerife Island Council represented by Yolanda Moliné, Minister of Sports, and Manolo Gómez, head of Ideco, emphasising the “international” element of a challenge that “will test the courage and endurance of the swimmers, while allowing them to appreciate the connection with the sea and the coastal beauty we have in this municipality.”
Meanwhile, Miguel Villarroya remarked that the Canary Islands and Arona are “unique” destinations for tourism and “an ideal spot for anyone wishing to engage in sports during their visit.” He elaborated that THE BLUE CHALLENGE was conceived to “position Los Cristianos beach as a landmark” and to enhance its appeal by “linking it with El Palm-Mar” specifically via the sea.
“Holding this event at this time relates to there being no further competitions until next year, and we found it quite intriguing to host an event when there is none, something that would take participants by surprise. Our aim was to encourage local families to spend a Sunday by the sea together, allowing parents and children to share this sporting experience. These were all crucial elements for us,” reflected Miguel Villarroya.
Fátima Lemes, the mayor of Arona, expressed her disappointment at not being able to attend on Sunday due to a previously arranged trip, stating that she would have “loved to participate and swim in this event because it promises to be a stunning and exhilarating day, making it a very special experience.” She acknowledged the cooperation from the Island Council and private contributors, which “drives and enables these events to occur,” underscoring that “tourism here originated as wellness tourism, and our goal is to maintain and provide wellness tourism” where sport plays a vital role in “promoting any destination.”
David Meca, visibly moved as he gazed upon the location from the terrace of the UP of the Arona Gran Hotel, where he arrived after a swim from La Gomera, expressed his gratitude for “the chance” the organisers provided to “relive the precious days of my life.” He noted that they even changed his place of residence on his ID to reflect Arona, which he had called home for years.
“I would like to congratulate everyone for supporting this event, as sport is synonymous with health, and investing in health is undoubtedly the best investment one can make,” declared the renowned Spanish swimmer, who reassured that “on Sunday, I am certain that all participants will enjoy the natural pool we have here in Arona, a transparent and splendid natural lagoon.”
