Over 60 recognized athletes honored at a gala celebrating effort, equality, and commitment to regional sports.
Yesterday, the Municipal Auditorium of Herencia became the focal point of regional sports during the presentation of the 2024 Sports Merit Awards and Distinctions organized by the Government of Castilla-La Mancha. This emotionally charged event recognized the values of sports and brought together prominent institutional representatives along with more than 60 award recipients from across the region.
Among the attending authorities were the Second Vice President of the Board of Communities, José Manuel Caballero, the Minister of Education, Culture, and Sports, Amador Pastor, as well as the host mayor, Sergio García-Navas, along with other figures from the sports and political realms.
During his speech, José Manuel Caballero praised the awardees as “mirrors of the noblest values of our society: effort, perseverance, and overcoming challenges.” Amador Pastor emphasized the role of sports as a driver of inclusion and community, highlighting the growth of female participation, which has now surpassed 100,000 licenses in Castilla-La Mancha.
Highlighted Recognitions
Among the awardees, the Gold Medals were awarded to footballer Francisco Javier García Torres, trial cyclist Alejandro Montalvo Milla, and an emotional tribute was paid to sisters Mónica and Marta Plaza Vázquez, participants in the 2024 Dakar Rally.
Silver Medals recognized athletes such as Jesús Gil García and Arantza Toledo Espinilla, while Bronze Medals were awarded to young talents like Jaime Irueste Rojo and Celia García Sánchez.
Merit Plaques were also given to organizations and clubs for their efforts in promoting sports as a means of health, integration, and training. In this section, the host town shone with the awarding of a Merit Plaque to the Municipal Sports Schools of Herencia for their extensive and committed educational work. The award was symbolically presented by Mayor Sergio García-Navas to Sports Councillor Serafín Tajuelo, representing the entire local sports community.
An Emotion-Filled Conclusion
The event concluded with a tribute to representatives from Castilla-La Mancha competing in the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games and a special recognition for coaches, referees, and journalists who have contributed to the development of sports from various fronts.
With this gala, Herencia strengthens its role as a regional reference in the sports arena, not only for its infrastructure and citizen participation but also for its active contribution to promoting the values that sports represent.
This event leaves a lasting impact, highlighting the efforts of hundreds of individuals who, day by day, make sports a tool for transformation and collective growth.
Spanish post in Herencia acoge la entrega de los Premios y Distinciones al Mérito Deportivo de Castilla-La Mancha 2024
