A charity race will mark the official unveiling of Palma’s revamped Paseo Marítimo this November. Though much of the promenade is already open to the public, the formal inauguration falls on November 15th and 16th, highlighted by a landmark race through usually off-limits port zones, under the banner of “opening the port to the city”. The Port Authority confirmed that outstanding works, including the Santo Domingo square and the clearance of the Mediterranean walkway remains, are due for completion in early November.
Festivities begin on Saturday 15 November with an array of sporting activities, before Sunday’s headline race takes centre stage. An exhibitors’ fair will be hosted in Santo Domingo de la Calzada square, doubling as the operational hub for the weekend.
Entry to the 10-kilometre race costs 10 euros, with proceeds going to Projecte Home Balears. Its president, Jesús Mullor, speaking at a press conference at the Port Authority headquarters, expressed his gratitude, noting that more than 1,000 people are currently receiving support through the charity’s programmes. “On behalf of them all, thank you very much,” Mullor said, stressing the importance of healthy leisure pursuits in “breaking the stigma” around addiction recovery.
The 10-kilometre course sets off from Santo Domingo square, heads towards Portopi, then loops through the Ponent-Paraires docks. Port Authority director Toni Ginard said it was the first time such an event had been permitted entry into controlled port areas, normally reserved for staff and passengers.
Alongside the main event, a 4-kilometre adult race, a range of children’s contests and a relaxed fun walk are scheduled. Race packs will be available the day before at Santo Domingo square, where free sessions in stretching, yoga, salsa, swing, zumba and more are planned for Saturday.
Port Authority president Javier Sanz acknowledged the difficulties of the construction phase and explained the decision to delay from the original 5 October date due to unfinished works affecting the course. Registration for all races are open, with organisers expecting strong public turnout.