The sporting event at the Baells reservoir, in the Berguedà region, was marked by swimming and a festive atmosphere. The race, which continues to grow since its return, has enhanced the experience for participants and visitors with an organization focused on details and creating an attractive environment around the competition.
The organizing team, led by Judit Martínez and Ferran Ares, aimed for the crossing to be more than just a competition. "We don't want people to just come, swim, and leave; we want them to have a good morning at Baells and leave wanting to return," explains Martínez.
The competition featured various distances to suit the different levels of the more than 150 participants. The day began with a 300-meter children's race, designed for the youngest and to promote swimming among new generations.
In the 750-meter event, Eric Casals from Club Natació Barcelona won the men's category, followed by Joan Perramon and Martín Lozano. In the women's category, Claudia Iwan from CN Vic ETB took first place, with Julia López and Tania Vilajosana completing the podium.
The main event, the 2,000-meter race, attracted the most experienced swimmers. Eric Casals achieved a double victory, also winning this distance in 32 minutes and 48 seconds, while Oriol Vilajuana Miró and José Javier Montón took second and third place respectively. Claudia Iwan also secured a double, winning the women's 2,000-meter race in 36 minutes and 43 seconds, with Neus Armengou and Yanay Jaramillo coming in second and third.
Beyond the results, the organization highlights the family-friendly nature of the crossing and the spectacular surroundings of the Baells reservoir. "Swimming in Baells is spectacular, and I think we are very lucky to hold such an event in a privileged location," states Judit Martínez.
The event is open to swimmers of all levels and is made possible by a network of volunteers, families, and collaborators. The organization emphasizes the importance of promoting sporting events in Berguedà and raising the profile of open-water swimming, taking advantage of the region's privileged environment.
The work of the Berga Aquàtic Club in promoting swimming from the grassroots and fostering enthusiasm is also recognized. The combination of an active club, organizing events like this, and promoting the Baells contributes to the growth of sports in the area.
