Guadalajara city is getting ready to once again become the epicenter of international athletics with the celebration of the XXIV International Athletics Meeting ‘City of Guadalajara’, which will take place on Wednesday, June 18th at the Fuente de la Niña athletics track.
The event was presented this morning at a press conference by the Sports Councillor, Armengol Engonga, accompanied by Mario Peinado, technical director of the Guadalajara Athletics Union Club and main promoter of the meeting; international athletes Tiaan Whelpton (New Zealand record holder in 100m) and Aciru Knight (Ugandan middle-distance promise); and Carlos Rojo, representative of Real Estate Arbeteta, sponsor of the event.
During his speech, Engonga emphasized the importance of this sports event, which «celebrates its twenty-fourth edition, establishing itself as a reference in international athletics and sports in our city, with more than 25 countries participating, which raises the prestige that this athletics event already has and will allow us all to enjoy the best athletes.» Engonga also highlighted the inclusive and family-friendly nature of the event, which will feature competitions for all ages and levels, from children’s categories to elite events.
On his part, Mario Peinado thanked the support of the Guadalajara City Council, sponsors, clubs, volunteers, and federations, and stated that this edition «exceeds the previous one in both quality and participation.» Among the novelties, he highlighted the mixed long jump event, where male and female top-level athletes such as Fátima Diame, Juan Miguel Echevarría, and Carmen Rosales will compete together.
The program includes speed events (100m, 400m), middle-distance (800m, 1500m), long jump, triple jump, and an inclusive event. Prominent athletes include names like Isaac Nader, Ronnie Baker, Vitória Rosa, Paula García (Spanish champion), Pablo Sánchez-Valladares, Ronaldo Olivo, American athlete Ronnie Baker, Abel Mutai, seventh in the world.
The athletes who participated in the presentation and will compete in the event also shared their impressions. New Zealand sprinter Tiaan Whelpton expressed his enthusiasm, saying, «It is an honor to be here. This track is very fast, and I hope to achieve a great performance tomorrow. Thank you for the invitation.»
On the other hand, Aciru Knight, from the Guadalajara Athletics Union Club, mentioned that «tomorrow will be a great day to achieve good results and qualify for the Tokyo World Championships.»
From the business perspective, Carlos Rojo, from Real Estate Arbeteta, reaffirmed their commitment to local sports, stating, «It is essential to support these types of events. We were sponsors last year, and it was wonderful. Guadalajara deserves events of this caliber.»
Entry to the XXIV International Athletics Meeting ‘City of Guadalajara’ will be free, and the event will take place from 18:00 to 21:00 hours, offering an evening of excitement, spectacle, and high-level sports for all audiences.
«We hope that the citizens come to enjoy an unforgettable day of athletics,» concluded Engonga.