More than 16,000 runners packed the streets of Barcelona for the Vueling Cursa de Bombers.
Organized by Prensa Ibérica, Relay Events, and Sport Life Ibérica, the Sunday event combined competitive road racing with popular participation and charity efforts across the city. Roughly 500 members representing various state fire corps joined the field, adding a distinctive element to the 10-kilometer urban race.
Firefighters in full gear inaugurated the traditional 10-kilometer route 10 minutes ahead of the main runner field. Hundreds of personnel wore heavy self-contained breathing apparatus and personal protective equipment that can weigh over 20 kilograms.
The race also served as the official 10km road racing championship for Catalonia. The course began and ended at Avinguda del Marquès de l’Argentera near Estació de França, guiding participants through central thoroughfares including Paral·lel, Via Laietana, and Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes.
“This race is the most special for us,” Andrea, a Generalitat firefighter who ran in full uniform, told diaridegirona.cat. “We know we won’t set great marks with the uniforms, but every time you flag a little bit, everyone applauds and cheers you on, and it’s inevitable to get your spirits back even when you have no strength left. It’s incredible.”
Fire personnel traveled from Málaga, Andorra, France, and the United States for the 27th edition of the event. “It’s a day of brotherhood,” Anna, a Barcelona firefighter, told diaridegirona.cat after finishing in her protective gear. “It’s incredible to go running and see how all the firefighters are cheering each other on.”
Beyond the firefighting contingents, the 16,000-strong field—which was roughly 40 percent female—featured runners with varied personal goals, including first-time participants, athletes returning after maternity leave, and those supporting charitable causes. Iván, an applicant preparing for the Generalitat fire service entrance exams, told diaridegirona.cat that competing in the race held special significance as he studies for the corps.
Other runners raised visibility for rare diseases through organizations such as Muévete Por los Que No Pueden. The event concluded without incident under clear Sunday skies.
Several local officials and media representatives attended the event near the finish line, including Barcelona sports councilor David Escudé, security deputy mayor Albert Batlle, El Periódico director Gemma Martínez, Sport director Joan Vehils, Vueling marketing manager Montse Jiménez, Catalan Athletics Federation president Mercè Rossich, and Barcelona Fire Chief Sebastià Massagué.
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