74-Year-Old Athlete Prepares for His 82nd Marathon in Lanzarote

After completing the Madrid marathon under extreme conditions, the seasoned runner from Valsequillo sets a new challenge on the island.

Image of a runner on a coastal road in Lanzarote with volcanic landscape in the background.
IA

Image of a runner on a coastal road in Lanzarote with volcanic landscape in the background.

A seasoned 74-year-old athlete, known for his tireless energy, is preparing for his 82nd marathon in Lanzarote, having recently completed the demanding Madrid race.

The runner, nicknamed the 'roadrunner of Valsequillo', proved that age is just a number by finishing the Madrid marathon, his 81st race, under adverse weather conditions. The event in the capital was described as "incredible" and "very tough", with a late start leading him to run for six hours in 35-degree heat, managing to cross the finish line just before closing, unlike over 500 participants who did not.

"I was running for six hours."

the Valsequillo roadrunner
Far from resting, the athlete is already focused on his next goal: the Lanzarote marathon, scheduled for December 5. This race will be significantly different from the Madrid one, which had "a lot of altitude", as the Lanzarote race will take place "near the beach, at sea level", with a route of "21 kilometers there and twenty-one back".
The secret to his sporting longevity lies in his "super hyperactivity" and a consistent routine that includes almost daily training, weekly gym visits, and monthly massages. His passion for running, which began at 22 years old, is something he has "in his blood", feeling that "something is missing" if he goes a few days without practicing it.

"It's something I already have in my blood."

the Valsequillo roadrunner
The runner is a recognized figure in Gran Canaria, having crossed the island running on five occasions. Although he now prefers asphalt, he fondly remembers his beginnings in the mountains. His career has been recognized with a street in Valsequillo and a race named after him. His good health, confirmed by recent analyses, is partly attributed to running and natural supplements.