HE Greater Elche Theater was alive with energy this Thursday as athletes gathered to celebrate a fresh edition of the tournament. The Sports Gala in Elche kicked off the season with optimism, marking a new era led by the People’s Party under the leadership of Mayor Pablo Ruz and Sports Advisor José Navarro.
Unlike previous years, the festival was pushed from June to October due to the coincidence with the municipal elections. The city paused and then brightened as athletes, clubs, and supporters filled the venue to honor achievements from the past season and to acknowledge years of hard work behind Elche’s vibrant sports scene.
It was a long, celebratory night in which the organizers recognized the diligent athletes who reached notable heights last season and the clubs that have consistently contributed to sports in Elche, a city renowned for its palm trees and community spirit.
At the Ciutat d’Elx Awards, the distinction for the most successful athlete of the 2022-2023 season went to a footballer in the women’s division, Asun Martinez, who currently plays for Valencia CF and earned the World Champion title with Spain’s Under-20 team in Costa Rica. In the men’s category, Hugo Arillo was honored for his performance as a taekwondo competitor, following his runner-up finish at the World Championship in Baku.
The Ajuntament d’Elx Award highlighted Atticgo Handball Club Elche for its women’s team, the Guerreras, who reached the Iberdrola League runner-up position, advanced to the EHF European Cup semifinals, and stood as quarter-finalists in the Copa de la Reina.
The Palmerar d’Elx Ilicitano Sports Foundation Award recognized the foundation for its sustained support of Elche sports, with Region A Elche cited for its ongoing commitment to local athletic development.
Winners and authorities of the Gran Teatro were acknowledged during the ceremony, with ANTONIO AMOROS among those in attendance.
In the Special Recognition category, the Mystery d’Elx Award celebrated the reinforcement of human values through sport, highlighting the Rugby l’Alcudia Club Esportiu for its inclusive project supporting people with intellectual disabilities.
Elche CF, marking its centenary, received the Ilice Award for Elx, commemorating historic milestones that have significantly shaped the city’s sports heritage. This award underscores events that have driven the development of Elche sports over the decades.
Elche sport is preparing to hold another recognition gala this Thursday, a moment designed to reflect on achievements and set new goals for the community’s athletes.
Jamie Sanchez, president of the Elche Swimming Club, serves as a guiding force for the Elx Ciutat d’Esports Award, continually promoting sport in the region and championing youth and competitive excellence.
The Lady d’Elx Award recognized the dedicated work of the athletic trainer who has spent a lifetime coaching and mentoring athletes. The boxing legend Kiko Martínez retired this year, closing a chapter in a storied career. Encarni Rodríguez Martínez was honored for her exceptional contributions to rhythmic gymnastics, celebrating a sustained dedication to young gymnasts and their growth.
The Awards also included a Special Mention for the Elche Wheelchair Basketball Club and the Elche Half Marathon, both of which marked their 50th anniversaries this year. The karate coach Antonio Miguel Verdu weightlifting coach Sara Sánchez-Manjuca were celebrated for their leadership. Shortlisted football players Juan and Pablo Serrano-Torres, and the Elche Skating Club, along with the 208 Triathlons and the free diver Isabel Sánchez Aran, were highlighted for their commitment and achievements.