A Day of Triumph: The XXVI Travesía a Nado Isla de Lobos – Fuerteventura
This past Sunday, Fuerteventura experienced one of its most spectacular days with the celebration of the XXVI Travesía a Nado Isla de Lobos – Fuerteventura, organized by the Club Deportivo Herbania. The event witnessed a historic turnout, attracting over 280 swimmers from across the globe, including participants from London, Germany, Costa Rica, the Spanish mainland, and throughout the Canary Islands.
Ideal Conditions and Enthusiasm
The weather for this year’s event was nothing short of perfect. With the sea resembling a calm plate, crystal-clear waters in the La Bocaina strait, and a welcoming atmosphere, both participants and spectators were treated to a memorable day. The race commenced on the islet of Lobos, culminating at the sporting dock of Corralejo, creating an experience etched in memory for its beauty and palpable enthusiasm among the cheering crowds lining the bay.
A Spectacle of Water and Emotion
The launch from the boats El Majorero and Celia Cruz painted one of the most breathtaking scenes of the day: hundreds of swimmers leaping into the ocean against the stunning backdrop of Lobos Island and the Corralejo dunes. As various participants recounted, the water was so clear that “you could see the bottom.” The meticulously coordinated efforts of kayak volunteers transformed the journey into a safe and enchanting experience for all involved.
Upon achieving the finish line, Herminio Fernández Alperi from Club Nadamas emerged victorious, clocking an impressive time of 00:40:16. He was closely followed by young Matías Padrón, just 14 years old, who secured second place with a remarkable time of 00:41:57. Nicolás Padrón Miguélez, also representing Nadamas, clinched third with a time of 00:42:16.
In the women’s category, Naira Jaen Serra, also from Club Nadamas, took first place with a time of 00:43:39, trailed by Alexandra Sánchez Clark and Elena Sarmiento Guerra from CD Swim & Train Maspalomas, who finished second and third, respectively.
Inspiring Participation
This year’s event was especially heartwarming, featuring veteran swimmer Mauricio Zanahan. At 83 years old, he made history as the oldest participant to complete the swim, showcasing a spirit of passion for the ocean that transcends age.
Awards and Recognition
The winners, Herminio Alperi and Naira Jaen Serra, each received a prize of €250 in cash. Those in second place enjoyed a selection of gourmet products from Sybaritas Gourmet, while the third-place finishers received cheese assortments from Quesería Felipa La Montañeta.
Prominent sponsors and local officials, including the sports councilor of the Cabildo de Fuerteventura and the sports councilor of La Oliva, Gleiber Carreño, were present to support and acknowledge the efforts that made the event possible.
Institutional Voices
Inma Díaz, the president of Club Deportivo Herbania, expressed her joy over the success of the event:
“Today we celebrate 26 editions of this Isla de Lobos – Fuerteventura crossing, one of the longest-running events in the Canaries, started in 1999 with fewer than 40 participants. This year, we’ve surpassed records with over 280 registrants from Europe, the mainland, and the entire archipelago. Thank you to everyone who came to Corralejo. It was spectacular to witness those swimmers dive into the sea amidst applause and excitement.”
Echoing her sentiments, Gleiber Carreño remarked, “We are extremely proud of the outcome of this new swimming crossing. It has been a resounding success, characterized by a spectacular atmosphere and flawless organization. Congratulations to the Club Deportivo Herbania for their dedication, and to all participants for keeping this tradition alive. We look forward eagerly to the next edition.”
The Force Behind the Magic
The smooth execution of the event highlighted the collaborative efforts of over 60 volunteers, security teams, medical personnel, and support boats, all dedicated to ensuring the race went off without a hitch. The club expressed gratitude to various collaborators and sponsors that include Crimera Fuerteventura SL, Tripasión Eventos, Barco El Majorero, and others, whose contributions were vital to the event’s success.
A Perfect Day by the Sea
With calm seas, radiant sunshine, and the shared excitement between swimmers, spectators, and organizers, the XXVI Travesía a Nado Isla de Lobos – Fuerteventura shone bright as one of the most cherished and spectacular events in the Canary Islands. The combination of the ocean, personal achievement, and a deep passion for the sport created an unforgettable day in the beautiful setting of northern Fuerteventura, reaffirming the dedication of the Herbania club to making the magic happen.
