The city of Dénia celebrated its 2026 Sports Gala last Friday, an event that filled the Plaça de la Constitució to recognize the sporting achievements, values, and careers of the 2025-2026 season. The event brought together athletes, clubs, organizations, families, and fans.
The award for Best Athlete of Dénia 2026 went to Saúl Delgado Serer, a U20 athlete from Club d’Atletisme Diànium. Delgado has had a remarkable season in combined events, becoming the Spanish U20 decathlon and heptathlon champion, as well as winning the Spain-Portugal International Trophy with the Spanish National Team and achieving two regional runner-up titles.
The main award was presented jointly by the acting mayor, Rafa Carrió, and Nino Van der Zeeuw, winner of the previous edition. The Councilor for Sports, Valen Alcalà, emphasized in his speech the importance of sport as health, education, inclusion, and family, highlighting that Dénia is a city that lives sport and aims for inclusive sport, 'without exceptions, without barriers, without leaving anyone behind'.
The gala also recognized the promotion of social values. Dénia Bàsquet Club received an award for its 30th anniversary and social commitment. Maria Ferrer Bisquert was the best junior athlete in billiards, the Travessia Les Rotes the best sporting event, and Arsenal Club for promoting inclusive sport. The Club de Pilota Valenciana was recognized for its first women's raspall team, and the students of IES Historiador Chabàs for promoting health. Carlos Herrera Exojo received a special mention for his international participation with the Spanish U17 futsal team.
In the Municipal Sports Schools, Kyrylo Koval was the most outstanding athlete in climbing, Club Volei Marina Alta received the award for the school with the most growth, and the Cadet and Benjamin teams of Dianense were recognized as the best teams. Sergio Llobell was named best coach for his work in inclusive sport.
As a novelty, the gala included a participatory process for citizens to nominate candidates. The trophies were handcrafted by users of Aprosdeco. Awards were presented in various individual and team categories, including athletes from Club d’Atletisme Diànium, Club de Tennis Dénia, Dénia Rugby Club, CD Dénia, Club Voleibol Marina Alta, Dénia Bàsquet Club, Club Deportivo Garbí Dénia, Escola de Futbol Base Dénia, and Club Gimnàstica Dénia.
