Celia Bellicourt, a 22-year-old athlete from Granada, passed away on Thursday following a serious accident near Arenas del Rey in Granada. The tragedy involved an equestrian activity in which she was riding with a friend when their vehicle veered off and fell into a crevasse in the Las Rajas valley. Local emergency services were alerted just before noon, and responders arrived promptly to secure the scene and provide aid.
Bellicourt was declared dead at the site of the accident. Her friend sustained injuries and was transported to a hospital by medical helicopter for urgent treatment. The incident shocked the local community and drew swift attention to the dangers associated with high-risk equestrian activities and off-road travel in mountainous terrain.
Following the news, Nerja Athletics Club issued a statement on its social media channels, expressing a message of remembrance and support. The club conveyed that Bellicourt had a profound impact on those around her and that her memory would endure in their hearts. The outpouring of sympathy reflected the strong bonds she formed within the local athletics community and among friends and supporters who admired her dedication to sport.
Local authorities and residents also offered condolences to Bellicourt’s family and friends. The mayor of Almuñécar extended his heartfelt sympathy, acknowledging the loss as a heavy blow to the family, teammates, and the broader town. Community leaders stressed the importance of honoring her legacy by supporting young athletes who pursue ambitious goals in track and field and related disciplines, while also prioritizing safety and responsible sports participation.
Celia Bellicourt was a native of Almuñécar and a member of the Trops Cueva de Nerja athletics club. Her athletic path included competing as a relay runner at the national level, where she earned recognition for her speed and teamwork. Beyond athletics, she was pursuing higher education, studying for a Higher Technician qualification in Teaching and Socio-Sports Animation, a program commonly abbreviated as TSEAD, reflecting her commitment to education and youth development. Her achievements and ongoing studies highlighted a multi-faceted profile that blended competitive sport with academic and community involvement, leaving a lasting impression on teammates, coaches, and mentors who supported her growth.