Canillas de Albaida is preparing for a charity trail race on Sunday, October 18, with money raised going to help seven-year-old Thiago from Velez-Malaga, who lives with an ultra-rare genetic condition.
The fourth Reto Higinio mountain race will bring runners, families and supporters together for a day of sport and fundraising in the Axarquia village. Organisers have also planned children’s activities, live music and a solidarity paella, so people can support the cause without running.
Race entries closed but donations welcome
Runners can choose between two demanding mountain routes, covering 13.5 kilometres with 650 metres of climbing or 24.5 kilometres with 1,450 metres of climbing. Both routes pass through the Sierras Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park.
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However, anyone hoping to enter should be aware that race registration has closed. The official DorsalChip listing confirms that entries are no longer being accepted.
People can still help Thiago through the event’s donation arrangements. Organisers have provided a Fila 0 option for supporters who cannot take part, with all money collected through this route going to the charitable cause.
Donations can also be made by bank transfer to the solidarity account published in the official race regulations: Cajamar, IBAN ES70 3058 0719 8427 3215 2108. Donors should check the organisers’ latest instructions before transferring money.
Helping a child with an ultra-rare condition
Thiago’s condition is linked to the NALCN gene and is known as IHPRF. According to the organisers, only 98 children with the condition have been registered worldwide, including two in Spain.
His mother, Remedios Díaz, has spoken about the daily challenges facing the family and the importance of community support.
The event is organised by Canillas de Albaida Town Hall and Club Deportivo Locos de la Colina, with support from local athletics clubs, the Vamos Higinio Stop-AME association, Velez-Malaga’s Sports Department and the Axarquia municipal association.
Residents who cannot run can still help by donating or checking with organisers about attending the family activities.