The 38th edition of the Media Maratón Ciudad de Talavera-Memorial Aníbal Arévalo is set to take place on 8 November, with a record-breaking 800 athletes registered to participate. Sports Councillor Antonio Núñez announced the news during a press conference, highlighting the event's growing popularity and significance in both regional and national athletics.
Núñez noted that all available race numbers were sold out before the registration deadline, a testament to the event's success. He was joined at the press conference by Luis Miguel Alonso, a representative of the organising club UDAT (Unión Deportiva Atlética de Talavera), and CaixaBank representatives Mayka Díaz and Teresa López, the event's main sponsor.
According to Núñez, the Media Maratón has become a key fixture in the athletic calendar, attracting running enthusiasts from across the region and beyond. He emphasised the event's evolution from its early days, when it attracted only 150 to 200 runners, to its current status as a prominent competition.
The race is officially federated and included in the national calendar, marking a significant achievement for Talavera and enhancing its reputation in the sporting community. "We are committed not only to the quantity of events but also to their quality, and this race exemplifies both aspects," Núñez stated.
He encouraged local residents to participate and enjoy the day, which promises to fill the streets of Talavera with athletic spirit. Núñez also acknowledged the efforts of UDAT and all those involved in making the event possible, recognising the years of dedication to promoting athletics in the area.
CaixaBank's support for the event is part of a broader strategy to engage with communities and promote sports. The bank expressed its hope for a successful race day.
This year's race will feature 800 participants, including 155 women and 652 men, reflecting an increase of approximately 130 runners compared to the previous year, representing a growth of nearly 20%. The rise in female participation is notable, now at around 2.5% of the total entrants.
More than 74 teams will compete, with many athletes of regional and national calibre participating, enhancing the event's competitive edge. The 21-kilometre course is predominantly flat, providing ideal conditions for runners aiming to improve their personal bests. The start and finish lines will be located on Avenida Alcalde Pablo Tello, near the exhibition centre, in an urban circuit that allows runners to experience various parts of Talavera.
Local authorities, including the police, Red Cross, and Civil Protection, will collaborate to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely, underscoring the importance of community involvement in hosting such a significant occasion.
