Catalan runner Estel Roig wins a thrilling duel against María Fuentes, while Santamaría from La Rioja secures victory after his silver medal in the previous edition
In the Promo category, Germany’s Madlen Kappeler completes the double after winning yesterday’s Vertical Kilometer (VK), joined on the men’s podium by Asturias’ Daniel Galán
A historic day for Canarian trail running with over 1,800 participants across both distances
Following yesterday’s spectacular start with the “El Gigante” Vertical Kilometer, the 27th edition of The North Face Transgrancanaria experienced a day of high emotions today with the Half and Promo races. The Half debuted a stunning start from the historic center of Santa Lucía de Tirajana, leading runners through a privileged natural environment towards Tunte and the demanding Camino de la Plata, completing 23 km and 1,817 meters of positive elevation gain to the finish line in Tejeda.
Half Marathon Report: Intensity from the Start
In the women’s category, María Fuentes set a fast pace early on, distancing herself from a chasing group led by Inés Astrain and Moana Lilly Kehres. However, Astrain fought back, closing the gap on technical descents. The two ran neck-and-neck for several kilometers in a race where altitude (reaching 1,723 meters) was a decisive factor.
Meanwhile, Estel Roig remained close to the leaders. The trio stayed together until the Garañón Camp (km 15), where misfortune struck Inés Astrain, who lost her way and fell out of podium contention. This left the victory to a direct duel between Roig and Fuentes, with the Catalan runner ultimately taking the win in a spectacular island debut. Italy’s Arianna Dentis completed the podium, securing her second third-place finish of the week.
Estel Roig: “I am so happy; I didn’t expect this at all. My goal was a top 5. I live in Switzerland and I’m used to training in snow, so the rocky descents were a bit tough, but the landscape is incredible.”
In the men’s race, Alain Santamaría managed to redeem himself after last year’s second place. Santamaría engaged in a spectacular battle with 21-year-old Marcos Villamuera, edging him out at the finish line by only a few seconds. Diego Menéndez closed the honorary podium.
