By Natascha Rivera

Copyright euroweeklynews

FIFTEEN runners from well-known Mojacar sports group Los Bandidos lined up for the 15th race in the Popular Race Circuit of the Province of Almeria 2025. The race, held on Saturday, September 27, took place in Macael and the runners were met with cooler temperatures that made the racing conditions slightly more comfortable compared to previous hot and humid race days … though the 7.2 kilometre course was nothing to sneeze at.

The challenging race boasted more than 170 metres of climbing and a mix of roads, trails, and even a tunnel the athletes had to traverse. Beginning with an unforgiving 2-kilometre climb, the race continued with an uneven and twisting descent and yet another steep hill to the finish line. The fastest racer crossed the finish line with a time of 24:56. In total, 154 runners participated in the course.

Handmade marble trophies, true to the traditions of Macael, were awarded to the overall winners as well as the top three finishers of each age group. Every participant took home a commemorative T-shirt, straw hat, or mug, as well as post-race refreshments.

Though Los Bandidos suffered their share of tumbles on the treacherous terrain, and team member Teresa Chance was forced to retire from the race (thankfully with no injuries thanks to the quick care of the team), Los Bandidos celebrated yet another strong performance as a group and were awarded seven age-group trophies. Additionally, every Bandido finished in the top 10 of their category. The women performed particularly well, sweeping all three podium spots at the E-F category.

The Los Bandidos running group have become quite well known in the town and apart from their athletic prowess and hard work, they often participate in local charities. The team is currently collecting non-perishable food and toiletries for the local Red Cross Food Bank.