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The sixth edition of the Transcostablanca charity race, organised by firefighters from the Marina Baixa, is expected to attract close to 1,000 participants across all categories and raise around €20,000 in support of the fight against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
The event will take place on Sunday, 1 June, along a five-kilometre urban route in Benidorm. All proceeds will go to ADELA CV, an association dedicated to supporting people affected by ALS.
The race was officially presented at Benidorm Town Hall, where organisers highlighted the “strong pace of registrations” and predicted a “phenomenal” turnout. Javier Jordá, Benidorm’s councillor for sport, described the initiative as “one of the town’s standout charity events of the year” and expressed his hope for a last-minute surge in registrations. “This isn’t just about sport,” he said, “it’s about solidarity.”
One of the key figures behind the race, Benidorm firefighter Paco Pedrera, shared the personal story that gave rise to the initiative. His wife was diagnosed with ALS, which he described as “a neurodegenerative disease with no cure and an average life expectancy of two to five years.” In addition to the emotional and physical toll, he stressed the financial burden of dealing with the illness. While welcoming the newly approved ‘ELA Law’, Pedrera criticised the central government for delays in implementing it: “That’s why we’re having to organise events like this to raise funds.”
This year’s race carries the slogan “The finish line: extinguishing ALS” and has the backing of former footballer and ALS advocate Juan Carlos Unzué, who has recorded a video message in support of the cause.
Spanish 10K champion and elite athlete Miguel Baidal is also set to take part in the event, serving as another draw for participants and supporters. Pedrera encouraged people to “come along on Sunday, 1 June, to enjoy a great day out while contributing to the fight against this disease,” which affects around 4,000 people across Spain.
José Cerdá, vice-president of the ‘Solidarios’ association of the Alicante Provincial Council, said the group would be making a financial contribution and helping to raise awareness about the condition.
Race organiser Pepe Brotons announced that around 400 people had already registered for the race and the accompanying walk, as well as the children’s races. He expressed confidence that the event will meet its goals: “With just over two weeks to go, we’re on track to reach 1,000 participants and raise nearly €20,000 – a fantastic result, especially for a first-time edition.”
Registrations are open via the website for both the race and the hiking route. Entry fees are €15 for adults and €5 for the children’s races. Online registration is available until Wednesday, 29 May, with on-site registration also possible on the day of the event, up to half an hour before the start.
The main race will follow a five-kilometre circuit starting and finishing at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, passing through Plaza de la Hispanidad, Avenida del Mediterráneo, Ametlla de Mar, Paseo de Levante, and back to the town hall square.
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