The XXVI edition of the Tabarca to Santa Pola swimming challenge, organized by the Alone Swimming Club, starts at 07:30 this Sunday. It continues to excel in every aspect, especially in participation. The club’s new head is guiding the event through its opening test, with attention drawn to three key figures.
The number of female participants is on the rise. The official tallies show the share of women increasing from 21 percent to 23.4 percent. It is also notable that youth involvement is growing; a swimmer up to 15 years old will attempt the course this year, and there are 16 swimmers under 18 in total. The event will include ten participants over 70 as well, reflecting broad age representation across the field.
Daniel Ponce Reigns in Santa Pola
In the context of the race, the organizing committee highlights the ongoing presence of seasoned competitors and welcoming newcomers who bring diverse skills and backgrounds to the challenge.
more strangers
The participation of international swimmers continues to grow. Across the full journey, 1,403 registrants come from 14 countries and 29 Spanish provinces. The event acts as a strong driver of sports tourism, with many international athletes visiting specifically to participate in this test.
Among the top nations by registrations are Argentina, Norway, and Slovenia. The event is recognized by participants as one of the top open-water middle-distance challenges in both Spain and the wider world, underscoring its international appeal.
The Tabarca to Santa Pola Swimming Pass is a 5,900-meter straight-line course. The race first took place in 1996, and four years later the Alone Swimming Club was established and has continued to be the event’s organizing body up to this edition.
The field includes participants with varied abilities who are eager to experience the open-sea adventure that this course offers.
Security
Participant safety remains the organization’s top priority. The organizers emphasize careful monitoring of athletes to prevent strokes and ensure robust support across the route. In addition to nearly 200 rowboats and canoes, the plan includes 32 motorboats with trained crews. A large network of volunteers will operate on land and at sea, with many having completed Red Cross and Rescue at Sea training. The overall team is expected to reach around 150 personnel across both land and water
Solidarity Purposes
The event dedicates one euro from each registration to charitable causes. This year, proceeds from Santa Pola will assist families facing Duchenne muscular dystrophy, including young Pablo and Martín, aged 9 and 5. Additional solidarity donations will support the Red Cross food bank, reflecting the club’s ongoing community commitments.
Good Seas and Live Stream on YouTube
Forecasts point to ideal sea and weather conditions for Sunday, with calm seas expected to persist through the morning. Live coverage is a highlight this year, streaming for the first time via Telecable Santa Pola’s fiber network. The race will be available on the Alone Swimming Club’s YouTube channel, searchable as XXVI Travesía a Nado Tabarca.