Leganés, Spain – The Ayuntamiento de Leganés will host its third annual Mesa de la Mujer en el Deporte – Women in Sports Roundtable – this Thursday, March 19th. The event, which has quickly become a cornerstone of the municipality’s commitment to gender equality in athletics, will bring together prominent figures to discuss challenges, share experiences, and inspire the next generation of female athletes.
This year’s roundtable features a compelling lineup of speakers: Olympic gymnast Almudena Cid, Paralympic athlete Desiré Vila, Silvia Rueda, president of the Club Bádminton de Leganés, and Virginia Blázquez, the sub-director general of Sports Programs for the Community of Madrid. The discussion promises to be a rich exchange of perspectives on navigating the world of sports as a woman, both on and off the field of competition.
The event isn’t just a platform for established athletes; it’s designed to be a source of motivation for young people in Leganés. Local Sports Councilor Clara Polonio encouraged young athletes to attend, stating that the roundtable has become “a basic tool for uniting sport and equality.” She emphasized the importance of providing young athletes with inspiring role models and the opportunity to learn from the experiences of successful women in sports.
Inspiring Trajectories: A Gaze at the Speakers
Almudena Cid brings a wealth of experience from the highest levels of competitive gymnastics. She’s expected to share insights into the discipline, resilience, and the critical need for female representation within the sport. Cid’s career has been marked by dedication and perseverance, making her a powerful voice for aspiring gymnasts.
Desiré Vila’s story is one of remarkable triumph over adversity. The Paralympic athlete will discuss her journey of reinvention following the amputation of her right leg due to medical negligence. Vila’s ability to not only continue competing but to excel in Paralympic athletics serves as a testament to the power of determination and the importance of inclusive sports programs.
Silvia Rueda, as president of the Club Bádminton de Leganés and a member of the Spanish Badminton Federation, represents the vital role of leadership in grassroots sports development. Rueda began playing badminton at age ten and, after a period away, returned to the sport in 2012, eventually taking on the presidency of the club. She has competed internationally in countries including Slovenia, Belgium, South Korea, and Thailand, achieving two Spanish Championships in women’s doubles and two runner-up finishes in mixed doubles alongside her husband. Her experience highlights the dedication required to build and sustain a thriving sports organization.
Virginia Blázquez, in her role with the Community of Madrid, has spent 14 years working in sports management, including coordinating the IPAFD program and leading the School Sports Service. She holds a degree in Physical Activity and Sports Sciences from the Polytechnic University of Madrid. Blázquez has focused on promoting physical activity in education and initiatives supporting athletes with disabilities, as well as navigating the challenges of reactivating sports programs during the pandemic. She also shared that being a mother to two children is her greatest achievement.
A Growing Tradition in Leganés
The Mesa de la Mujer en el Deporte has quickly established itself as a significant event in Leganés, providing a space for reflection and dialogue on the role of women in sports. The previous two editions featured prominent figures like Montse Tomé, the national football team selector, further solidifying the roundtable’s reputation as a key event in the municipality’s calendar.
The Ayuntamiento de Leganés has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting women’s sports and fostering values such as effort, equal opportunity, and personal growth through this initiative. The event aims to not only celebrate the achievements of female athletes but also to address the ongoing challenges they face and to inspire future generations to pursue their athletic dreams.
The roundtable will address key themes such as personal growth, work-life balance, female leadership in sports, and the importance of perseverance. These topics are intended to resonate with both aspiring athletes and those already involved in the sports community, offering practical insights and encouragement.
This event underscores a broader movement towards greater inclusivity and representation for women in all levels of sport. By providing a platform for dialogue and mentorship, the Mesa de la Mujer en el Deporte is contributing to a more equitable and empowering environment for female athletes in Leganés and beyond.
The III Mesa de la Mujer en el Deporte will take place on Thursday, March 19th, at 7:00 PM local time (7:00 PM CET, 1:00 PM EDT). Those interested in attending are encouraged to do so and engage with the speakers and fellow sports enthusiasts.
Following the roundtable, the Ayuntamiento de Leganés will continue to explore initiatives to support women’s sports and promote gender equality within the community. Stay tuned to the official Leganés website for updates on future events and programs.
