Two Decades of Unity: The Race for Life in Adeje and Arona

On November 30th, a vibrant crowd gathered in Adeje and Arona to mark the twentieth anniversary of the Race for Life, a significant event aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer. This year, the event drew thousands of participants, all united in their commitment to support a cause that touches many lives.

A Celebration of Gratitude and Awareness

The theme for this year’s race was a heartfelt “Thank you,” encapsulating the appreciation felt by both participants and organizers. Esther Rivero, the Health Councillor of Adeje, emphasized the importance of the event, which spanned from the parking lots of Siam Mall to the iconic golden mile, showcasing notable landmarks such as the Pyramids and Parque Santiago along the route.

The Race for Life was first conceived in 2005 by Brigitte Gypen, a Belgian expatriate who has called Tenerife home since 1984. Her vision was to create an event that would not only raise awareness about breast cancer but also challenge the stigmas associated with the disease. What began as a small gathering of just 400 participants has blossomed into a major annual event, drawing thousands of supporters each year, all eager to contribute to the cause.

A Day Filled with Joy and Community Spirit

The atmosphere on that sunny Sunday morning was nothing short of exhilarating, reminiscent of a lively carnival. The parking areas were overflowing with participants donned in pink attire, creating a stunning visual display of solidarity. The celebratory mood was further enhanced by performances from local groups, including the Adeje municipal troupe and the energetic Tuister Brasil batucada, whose lively drumming and entertainment captivated the crowd.

Participants had the chance to purchase T-shirts for seven euros, which included a raffle ticket for one of twenty exciting prizes. Approximately thirty stalls were set up, offering not only the T-shirts but also 3,500 complimentary fans provided by Quirón, along with the signature Race for Life socks, which symbolize empathy and support. Additionally, handmade products crafted by dedicated volunteers were available, all adorned in pink, further contributing to the event’s festive atmosphere.

Personal Stories of Strength and Community Support

Among the enthusiastic participants were local politicians who joined in the festivities, blending seamlessly with the crowd in their sportswear. However, the true essence of the event was captured in the personal stories shared by attendees, each narrative celebrating life and resilience in the face of adversity.

Nereida Cruz, a 69-year-old resident of Granadilla, expressed her excitement for the event, having participated six times previously. She traveled with a group of locals on one of the council-provided buses, accompanied by Councillor Marcos Antonio Rodríguez. Cruz highlighted the impressive fundraising efforts, noting that over 30,000 euros had already been raised online, with expectations for even greater contributions by the end of the day. Her enthusiasm was infectious, as she shared her belief in the power of community support in the fight against breast cancer.

The Race for Life continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the strength found in community spirit and the ongoing battle against breast cancer. It brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds, all united in their commitment to support a common cause, fostering a sense of hope and solidarity.

Key points

• The twentieth edition of the Race for Life took place on November 30th in Adeje and Arona.
• The event’s motto was “Thank you,” highlighting gratitude among participants.
• Esther Rivero, Health Councillor of Adeje, noted the race route included significant local landmarks.
• Brigitte Gypen initiated the event in 2005, which has grown from 400 participants to thousands.
• Participants enjoyed a festive atmosphere with performances and various merchandise available.
• Nereida Cruz, a frequent attendee, highlighted the fundraising success of the event.