Zaid Ait Malek, nicknamed 'The Atlas Tiger', secured first place in the 37-kilometer race of the fourth edition of the Burdin Hesiko Mendi Lasterketa, finishing in 3 hours, 9 minutes, and 9 seconds. In the women's category, Sonia Vizcaíno took the win with a time of 3 hours, 53 minutes, and 24 seconds.
The event, organized by the Eperlanda Cultural Association in collaboration with the Gamiz-Fika City Council, attracted over a thousand participants who contended with hot and humid conditions. The initiative blends sport, culture, historical memory, and nature.
The race's strong solidarity commitment is demonstrated through the donation of all proceeds to support research into rare pediatric neurological diseases conducted by Biobizkaia, a leading center for health innovation.
The organization, supported by nearly 300 volunteers, ensured the event ran smoothly. In addition to the 37km trail, a shorter 13km race and a walk were held, the latter including participants in adapted chairs.
Ait Malek, who was the runner-up last year, improved his performance. "This is my third year in this race, and it was tough," he stated upon finishing. "Diego Menéndez was strong, but he had an ankle issue on the first long descent and had to withdraw. I pushed forward and managed to win."
The second male finisher in the long-distance race was Álvaro Ramos (3h 10m 43s), followed by Carlos Rodríguez (3h 16m 48s). In the women's race, Paula López (4h 01m 00s) and Anna Pujol (4h 05m 10s) secured second and third places, respectively.
In the 13km race, Aimar Larrea took first place (59m 41s), and in the women's category, Lola Oiarzabal was the winner (1h 07m 40s).
Sustainability was also a key focus. One tree will be planted for each participant and volunteer, in collaboration with the Provincial Council of Bizkaia's Mountain Service, the Gamiz-Fika City Council, the Vizcaya Mountain Federation, and the company Egoin.
Beyond the competitions, numerous parallel activities were offered, including a popular meal, musical performances, and a hot chocolate event, fostering a festive and family-friendly atmosphere.
