Natalia Sasu and Herminio Fernández triumphed in the 30th edition of the ‘El Río’ swimming race, held on Saturday between Bajo Risco beach in Haría and Caleta de Sebo in La Graciosa.
Organised by the Lanzarote Island Sports Service, the event has been a staple of the islands’ sporting calendar since its inception in 1993. Sasu topped the women’s podium, with María Wood and Lily Gopar following her, while Fernández was joined by Álvaro Cabrera and Diego Vázquez in the men’s category.
The event saw the presence of Juan Monzón, the councillor for Physical Activity and Sports, along with fellow councillor Domingo Cejas, Francisco J. Aparicio, president of the Lanzarote and La Graciosa Safety and Emergency Consortium, and Teguise councillors Andoni Machín and Myriam Jorge.
This year introduced a new feature, the Travesía Chinija, aimed at young swimmers in Lanzarote and La Graciosa. Monzón explained that this initiative aims to engage children in a competition that forms part of the islands’ sports calendar.
The organisers took the opportunity of the 30th edition to honour individuals and organisations linked to the event’s history. Among the honourees was the Real Club Victoria, the race’s first organiser in September 1993, and Francisco Bello García, the event director from 1993 to 2018, whose award was accepted by his son after his passing.
Other accolades were presented to Margarona Páez Guadalupe, former local mayor of La Graciosa; Teguise Council; and various municipal workers involved since the race’s inception.
In the private sector, Líneas Romero was acknowledged for its support in transporting swimmers from the very first edition, alongside the Fishermen’s Guild of La Graciosa, the Virgen del Mar Parish, and Ahembo, among others.
Additionally, the organisation recognised the services and agencies that contribute to the safety and maritime logistics of the event, as well as the Marlines Club for their support with kayaks. The ceremony concluded by honouring participants who have been part of the race’s legacy.
