More ambitious, more kms, and more satisfying than ever, in keeping with the tenth anniversary programme of ten events, this years Walk For Life (Carrera Por La Vida) went that little bit further. The pink parade of around 3,000 people was stretched at some points but with determination, goodwill, and good organization it surpassed the impact of the previous years.
There was a new starting point at Plaza City Centre in Playa de Las Americas and although my initial impression was a slightly smaller turnout, that soon changed as we turned onto Avenida Rafael Puig, many more supporters were spread out in the pedestrianised street and tagged onto the joyous procession. Some may find it strange to describe the breast cancer event as joyous but it’s about hope, survival, and progress as well as the loss of good friends and family. There are always a few tears but I love the feeling of friendship and support that bonds the whole day together.
The mayors of Arona and Adeje turned out and headed the march and with a drum band belting out a steady rhythm holiday makers emerged from their hotel pools and sun beds to cheer us as we passed by. The Polica Local ensured us a clear path as the pink tide swept down through the beach promenade and then up the hill to San Eugenio. The preparation was spot on, they even had mobility vehicles to ensure the less agile were not left behind.
Cutting down Torviscas and onto the front in Fañabe we left the traffic behind, most drivers were very supportive beeping horns and waving, a stern look from the police was enough to keep the more impatient in line. It wasn’t just walkers taking part, there were three motorbikes adorned in pink that joined us on the road stretches. As always there was a good selection of dogs that seemed happy to be dressed in pink while the humans decorated themselves with wigs, wings, scarves, glasses, and any manner of fancy dress, there was even a mock wedding party.
In past years Fañabe has been the finish line but this time it was a breathing point as we enjoyed the abundance of water, health drinks, cookies, and bananas provided by the generous sponsors. The weather was on its best behaviour with the odd cloudy interlude to cool down a little so after a brief respite we picked up the pace and headed along the sea path to La Caleta. Some of the beach brigade deserted their towels to get a closer look at the spectacle passing by and all along the route people were pitching money into the collection, my friends from the Armada Sur reaped 460 euros between their three buckets and many others were receiving donations to go with the sponsorships.
Our target was the Plaza San Sebastian, we were greeted by a live band, it was quite a musical day as we were serenaded by a jazz band earlier on the walk. The water and soft drinks were very welcome and a couple of huge paellas helped to reload walkers energy. Some people were bracing themselves to at least retrace part of the 6km walk back to the start point but our organizers had thought of that too and had a coach shuttle service to take the strain. It was a fabulous way to spend a Sunday and everyone who took part should take a bow, they will have to go some to beat it next year but I’m confident they will.