Hondarribia experienced a special day for its fishermen on Santiago Day, with Olaia Goikoetxea as the protagonist carrying the Kutxa. The afternoon storm that threatened the event did not spoil it; the rain took a break at the most opportune moment, and many umbrellas were closed just before the start. The procession, although slightly delayed, departed from the Hermandad.
The procession included members of the Cofradía's board, fishermen, shipowners, txotxuas, skippers, authorities, the Music Band, and, of course, Olaia Goikoetxea, who wore a white dress and a green shawl as she completed the route amidst applause and cheers of 'Aupa Olaia!'
The group proceeded to the parish church, where Olaia could rest the heavy chest in the sacristy. After the reading of the Cofradía's accounts and the fishing catches from the past year, they returned to the starting point for the day's climax, accompanied by the melody 'Bajo la doble águila'.
Olaia's task was to spin around with the Kutxa on her head, a tradition that, according to custom, predicts better catches for the local fleet with more turns. She completed a total of exactly 80 turns.
“"In the morning I was quite nervous. Then, when I got ready, I calmed down a bit."
More relaxed and after numerous photographs, Olaia admitted to being nervous in the morning but calmer once she was ready. Despite the unfavorable weather forecasts, she paid them no mind, as they cannot control the weather, although those around her were very attentive.
The 23-year-old noted that wind was more of a concern than rain, as it could affect the stability of the Kutxa on her head, whereas rain wouldn't make her wet. Ultimately, she completed 80 turns, a number chosen based on the average age of her three grandfathers at the time of their passing. July 25, 2026, will be an unforgettable date for her and her family, who expressed their excitement and pride in her performance.
