The capital of La Marina Alta experienced a festive day this Saturday with the arrival of eight cyclists from the French association Entraid, who completed the eighth edition of the Angers-Dénia Solidarity Race. The event, which covered 1,400 kilometers over nine days, aimed to raise funds for five associations working with people with functional diversity.

Around 400 people gathered at the IES Maria Ibars to welcome the riders, in an atmosphere of gratitude, humanity, and solidarity. The procession grew a kilometer before the finish line, with the addition of cyclists from the Peña Ciclista Fent Amics and members of the Municipal School of Adapted Sports, accompanied by the Local Police and the sound of a fire truck.

The event included a performance by the Muixeranga de Segària and the Muixeranga de la Marina Alta. Subsequently, Franck Garanger, a rider from Entraid, presented a check for €10,000 to Jimmy Higueras, head of Condenados al Bordillo. These funds will be allocated to the Adapted Sports School and distributed among four French associations.

During the speeches, Jimmy Higueras, Joanba Martí (director of IES Maria Ibars), Franck Garanger, and Mayor Vicent Grimalt highlighted the importance of solidarity and inclusion. The cyclists received flowers and artisanal gifts made by users of TAPIS in Dénia.

Franck Garanger acknowledged the physical strain of this year's edition due to high temperatures, particularly in France, but described the experience as pleasant. Garanger is the only participant who has completed all eight editions of this race, organized every two years by Entraid since 2011, involving complex logistics and preparation.