Just days before Santa Tecla, Tarragona's castells groups seized the National Day to demonstrate their intentions and current strong form. The square hosted an event where the associations reaffirmed their current standing.
Xiquets de Tarragona kicked off the event at 12:30 PM with the 7d8, their tenth this year, which they successfully completed with effort. Following them, Sant Pere i Sant Pau completed the 3d8, a tower they have mastered and which could give them confidence for more complex structures.
El Serrallo presented their 4d8, completed for the sixth time this season, demonstrating the consolidation of this structure in the port district. Colla Jove closed the first round with a 4d9f, featuring a 'folre' (base layer) that remained intact despite the effort required from the main trunk.
In the second round, Xiquets de Tarragona attempted the 5d8 but it was an 'intent desmuntat' (disassembled attempt) due to a sudden movement. Sant Pere i Sant Pau managed to 'carregar' (partially complete) the 4d8a, but the pillar collapsed. The highlight was El Serrallo's attempt at the 2d8f, which they successfully 'carregat' for the first time in history, sparking euphoria. Colla Jove concluded the round with a strong 3d9f.
During the third round, Xiquets de Tarragona successfully completed the 5d8, celebrated as a significant achievement since the 2024 castells competition. Sant Pere i Sant Pau finished their performance with another 4d8, gaining practice for Santa Tecla. Colla Jove demonstrated control with the 4d8a, aiming to achieve an additional level.
The event concluded with Xiquets de Tarragona's 4d8 and Colla Jove's 'pilar de set folrat' (seven-level tower with base) during the pillar round, followed by joint 4 and 5-level pillars from the city's groups. The teams are now entering their final preparation days for the next major event on September 23rd at Plaça de la Font.
