José Viera: The Lighthouse of Jandía and His Journey Through Life

A Childhood Marked by Resilience

At just ten years old, José Viera, known affectionately as the “Faro de Jandía,” faced tremendous challenges. Losing his mother at the tender age of 37 during childbirth left a deep mark on his life. Amidst this heartbreak, he found a purpose: to learn the art of wrestling, a sport that would define him. Each day, he made the barefoot journey from Cofete to Morro Jable along the winding path of Ciervo, symbolizing not just a physical journey but a quest for strength and identity.

The Making of a Champion

Now on the cusp of his 55th birthday, Viera reflects on a lifetime dedicated to the sport. He has learned to fight not only within the wrestling ring but also in the arena of life, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity. The term ‘Faro’—meaning lighthouse—aptly describes his role as a guiding figure in the world of Canarian wrestling. Throughout his career, he has encountered numerous challenges, but his spirit remains unbroken, fiercely defending his legacy while offering a counterattack to life’s unpredictabilities.

Cofete: A Terreno of Life

Cofete is not merely a location for Viera; it is the very foundation of his existence. Nestled in one of the most beautiful natural settings of the Canary Islands, this secluded village is often a target for developers hungry for profit. Yet, its residents, especially the shepherds, fiercely protect their homeland. Viera’s connection to Cofete runs deep, enriching his identity and shaping his values.

More Than a Wrestler

While Viera has gained recognition through his wrestling career, he also thrives as a restaurateur. His establishment in Cofete serves delicious local dishes, including a mouthwatering fish broth made from ‘mero’ and a hearty stew with ‘escaldón de gofio.’ These meals offer comfort to those journeying down the challenging dirt roads that lead to his restaurant—a journey Viera intimately understands.

Tradition Meets Responsibility

In addition to his culinary pursuits, Viera is deeply rooted in the pastoral traditions of the island. He raises livestock, showcasing a heritage of the Majorero culture. His corral, situated just outside his restaurant, houses 85 goats, 25 hens, and even a donkey affectionately named Enriqueta. Viera is supported in this endeavor by Laureanito, a 12-year-old boy who assists by feeding the animals, and Agustín, a local character who cleverly repurposes stale bread for the livestock.

The Size of a Legend

Standing at nearly two meters tall and weighing 162 kilos, Viera commands respect in every room he enters. The seventh of twelve siblings, he cherishes his roots and enjoys sharing the beauty of Canarian folklore. A skilled timple player, he entertains in gatherings, especially during the San Juan festivities in Cofete when his restaurant transforms into a center of vibrant music and community spirit.

The Athlete’s Journey

Viera’s journey in wrestling began in childhood when he playfully battled other local children in the fields of Cofete. His talent was soon recognized by Manuel Trujillo Pollo, a renowned Gran Canarian wrestler who introduced him to the competitive world of Canarian wrestling. His training involved daily treks along the sandy paths between Cofete and Morro Jable, where his unyielding commitment to mastering this ancient sport began to take shape.

Triumphs and Legacy

Viera’s wrestling career saw him excel in competitions across the islands, making a name for himself as a key figure in teams representing his homeland, such as Tuineje and Unión Jandía. He officially retired in 1997, having etched his name in the annals of wrestling history. The respect he commanded was undeniable, not just for his physical prowess but for embodying the spirit of resilience and courage throughout his career.

A Living Memory

Even now, Viera’s legacy is commemorated through photos and memorabilia adorning the walls of his restaurant. Each picture tells stories of battles fought, camaraderie shared, and a culture celebrated. Yet, the walls of his establishment now also reflect a blend of old and new, as his son-in-law, Alberto, has made his mark, bringing a piece of Seville into the mix, showcasing the blend of families and traditions.

Viera, married for 32 years to Saro, is proud of their three children: Rubén, Juana, and Yeloisa. Together, they form a tapestry of memories in Cofete, a place of deep familial bonds where even the sands of the cemetery, resting beside the beach, tell stories of their ancestors, still influential in Viera’s life today.

An Enduring Connection

Every aspect of José Viera’s life—his athletic triumphs, his restaurant, his pastoral responsibilities—intertwines with his identity. Cofete serves as a constant backdrop, a place where the echoes of his childhood, the warmth of family, and the lessons from the wrestling mat resonate through the ages. Viera, “the Faro de Jandía,” continues to illuminate the path for many, embodying the spirit of Canarian culture and the resilience of the human spirit.