Santa Pola hosts a high level paddle surfing training camp as the world title race approaches
In the sunny harbor town of Santa Pola, the Spanish stand up paddle crew led by coach Manuel Simoncelli is gathering around twenty sailors for a rigorous training period. Their focus is the upcoming World Championships, slated to take place in September in Les Sables d’Olonne, a notable sailing venue on the Atlantic coast of France. The Varadero beach, with its long shoreline and reliable waves, serves as an ideal testing ground for tactics, endurance, and team coordination ahead of the major event.
The town has become a magnet for elite competitors and seasoned rowers alike. World champions mingle with local talents, creating a vibrant environment that mirrors the intensity of international competition. Among the voices heard there are veterans who already understand what it takes to win at the world level, and the sense of anticipation is palpable as relay teams prepare to push toward a podium finish later in the season. The mood is optimistic and focused, with the aim of securing the best possible overall result at the global meet. This is the prevailing sentiment of the squad and its leadership as they train in Santa Pola. [Citation: Santa Pola City Council sports briefing]
Simoncelli expressed strong satisfaction with the practice days in the fishing village. The coach noted the value of Santa Pola as a training site where important races are regularly held, highlighting the familiarity and comfort the athletes feel here. Daniel Parres coordinates logistics and supports the team, helping to streamline travel, lodging, and on-site arrangements, which contributes to a positive training atmosphere. The group members expressed their happiness with the arrangements and the sense of seamless preparation that allows them to stay focused on performance goals.
Support
Ángel Piedecausa, a member of parliament responsible for sports and beaches, commented on the occasion. He noted the pride in hosting the Spanish stand up paddle team and highlighted the presence of several world championship sailors among the local community. The objective remains clear: to bring home the top gold medal at the forthcoming World Cup in France. [Citation: Municipal sports briefing]
Paddle surfing elite vie for glory in Santa Pola and Tabarca
JR Corners
The mayor of Santa Pola underscored the town’s pride in hosting these athletes. He said the choice of Santa Pola reflects years of investment in sports education and club programs, supported by the City Council. This backdrop of organized training and steady commitment underpins the current wave of success seen on the water. The community recognizes that a robust base for aquatic sports has produced a steady stream of talent who can compete on the world stage.
breaking a legend
Piedecausa reaffirmed the Santa Pola City Council’s unwavering support for both grassroots and elite sports, with a particular emphasis on water sports including kiteboarding. Through collective effort, the city has shed the old myth that Santa Pola lives apart from the sea. Today the coast is a living laboratory for aspiring athletes, and young people enjoy access to a wide range of maritime activities that help them train, compete, and dream big. [Citation: Municipal press release]