The charity race Run Like a Hero Herencia was awarded the Values in Sports prize during the Sports Night of Herencia, held on June 11 in the city of Ciudad Real. The award was given to Carlos Javier Torres and Beatriz Fernández-Cañadas, the driving force behind this charitable initiative linked to the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Association of Spain.
This accolade recognizes efforts that blend sports, solidarity, personal growth, and family commitment. For the past five years, Carlos Javier Torres and Beatriz Fernández-Cañadas have organized this race in honor of their son Marco and all individuals affected by Phelan-McDermid Syndrome, a cause that has gained significant social and sporting support in Herencia.
A Prize for Solidarity Through Sports
The Sports Night of Herencia, organized by the Local Council of Sports and Physical Activity, annually honors athletes, coaches, clubs, organizations, and individuals who embody values such as camaraderie, fair play, perseverance, and overcoming challenges.
This year’s Values in Sports award held special emotional significance. Choosing Run Like a Hero Herencia acknowledges the work of a family that has turned a personal experience into an initiative that engages the entire community, mobilizing volunteers, participants, institutions, and residents around a common cause.
Carlos Javier Torres, delegate of the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Association in Castilla-La Mancha, and Beatriz Fernández-Cañadas expressed their gratitude for the award, dedicating it to everyone who makes the race possible each year. In their acceptance speech, they emphasized the support from the community, family members, and volunteers who contribute to each edition.
The Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Association of Spain also wanted to publicly congratulate the family for their ongoing efforts and thanked the Herencia City Council for their support of charitable initiatives in the municipality.
Run Like a Hero: A Recognized Race in Herencia
Run Like a Hero Herencia has established itself as one of the most significant sporting and charitable events for the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Association of Spain. The race combines physical activity, social awareness, and support for affected families, making it an event that transcends merely crossing a finish line.
Its strength lies in collective participation. Each bib number, volunteer, and person who joins contributes to raising awareness of a little-known reality and enhancing support for those living with this syndrome. Sports serve as a meeting point, a means of storytelling, accompanying, and fostering empathy.
The recognition received on Sports Night confirms the value of this initiative in the social life of Herencia. It honors not just the organization of a race but also the ability to sustain a charitable project for years, born from love, persistence, and commitment to other families.
New Edition with Bibs Available from September 15
The Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Association of Spain has already announced that there will be a new edition of the race this year. Bibs will be available for purchase starting September 15, marking the beginning of a new call for those who wish to participate and support the cause.
Expectations are high once again. The race has built a loyal community that understands sports as more than just competition. In Herencia, Run Like a Hero has become an event where solidarity takes the form of sneakers, bibs, applause, and presence on the streets.
The Values in Sports award serves as recognition of a journey and also as motivation to continue moving forward. Carlos Javier Torres and Beatriz Fernández-Cañadas have demonstrated that a local initiative can have a profound impact when it is born from a genuine cause and is sustained through hard work, closeness, and community support.
The upcoming edition will be a new opportunity to support Marco, his family, and all individuals affected by Phelan-McDermid Syndrome. Herencia will once again run for a cause that is now part of its charitable calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who received the Values in Sports award in Herencia?
The recognition was awarded to Carlos Javier Torres and Beatriz Fernández-Cañadas for their leadership of the charity race Run Like a Hero Herencia.
What is Run Like a Hero Herencia?
It is a charity race organized to support individuals affected by Phelan-McDermid Syndrome and linked to the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Association of Spain.
When will the bibs for the next race be available?
The Association has announced that bibs will be available from September 15.
Spanish post in Run Like a Hero Herencia, premio Valores en el Deporte
