The 13th Mar de Las Calmas Swim Crossing has established itself as one of the most spectacular open water events in the Canary Islands, attracting nearly 450 swimmers to the island of El Hierro. The competition, characterized by the challenging sea conditions and the beauty of the protected environment of the Punta de La Restinga-Mar de Las Calmas Marine Reserve, showcased the high caliber of the participants.
The 18-kilometer distance, starting at dawn from the historic Faro de Orchilla, delivered a thrilling finale. After more than five and a half hours of effort, Martín Julio Suárez Pérez claimed the men's victory (5h 32m 41s), closely followed by Sergio Cáceres Pintor (5h 32m 49s) and Santiago Rojas Rodríguez (5h 32m 56s). In the women's category, Isabel Valido Carreño secured an undisputed win (5h 44m 28s), with Fátima Ramírez Arraiz taking second place (7h 10m 27s), both demonstrating immense endurance against the rough waves and currents.
The 6.5-kilometer race, starting from Tacorón bay, also featured a high pace. Unai Cocera dominated the men's category (1h 17m 51s), while Marta Armas Roca led the women's (1h 26m 54s). They were joined on the podium by Betuel González de Armas and Francisco Javier Luis Pérez for the men, and Sybille Bouchet and Ainhoa Santana Flores for the women.
In the short 2.5-kilometer distance, starting from Puerto Naos, Jonay Cerpa won the men's event (32m 03s) and Xiomara Cerpa Caballero the women's (35m 50s). The shorter races were characterized by close finishes right up to the final meters.
Beyond the race times, the event was marked by organizational success and community spirit, featuring emotional welcomes and the involvement of volunteers and boats. The El Pinar City Council emphasized the event's importance for local identity and the sustainable promotion of El Hierro's natural heritage.
