The evangelical Olympics of Galicia held a new edition in the Spanish city of La Coruña, with a wide participation of churches in the region.

The activity was held again in the Elviña University stadium, where children and teenagers from each church competed for gold, silver and bronze medals in disciplines such as long jump, high jump, shot put, marathon, sprint and relay races.

This year, 425 children participated in the competitions. That represents a 30% increase in participation compared to the previous year.

The representatives of the United Church of Vigo took first place with 338 points, followed by Good News Church of Lugo with 281, and Good News Church of Ferrol, with 205 points.

A race accompanied by Jesus

Esther Rodríguez, founder of the the Evangelical Olympics in Spain, recalled the importance of this type of activity, because “the race of life begins and ends with Jesus Christ", and as God's people we bear witness to that here today”,

She spoke about the importance of promoting sport and fellowship, and that the children develop a sense of belonging to their churches by feeling cheered up by other church members.

Timoteo Figueirido Woodford, the organised in La Coruña, said that around 40 volunteers participated in this 2023 edition.

“This area has improved greatly compared to the previous year. We are about 20 in the organisation and this time we have another 20 young people from several churches that were joining the activity according to the requirements of the day”, he said.

Meting new and old friends

In addition to the competitions, the participants could enjoy a choreography performed by some athletes and the traditional parade led by a tiger, the sports mascot of this edition.

One of the athletes, Elías Pérez Alvariño, said he felt very good despite the fact that this was his last year competing due to his age. “I'm having a great time, it's always special to share with companions from other churches”.

Another athlete, Lucia Vicedo Martinez, said she felt fulfilled to be able to participate again. “I have many friends and it's great to be able to see them again and encourage each other”.