Journalist Miguel Yeste has launched a commemorative publication that traces the origins, events, key figures, and shared experiences of the Provincial Circuit of Popular Races in Albacete. The book reflects on the journey from the six races held in 2001 to the large sporting family that now includes thousands of participants.
The event, originally scheduled for the previous week but postponed due to the tragic train accident in Urda, brought together representatives from various generations of the Circuit, including those who have played significant roles in its history.
During the presentation, Yeste was joined by Santi Cabañero, President of the Diputación de Albacete, and Dani Sancha, Provincial Deputy for Sports, along with athletes Manuel García, Lucas Ruiz, and María Ruiz Escribá, whose careers are intertwined with the Circuit's narrative.
Cabañero described the book as “the family book of the Circuit,” praising Yeste's ability to capture the unique spirit of this sporting event. He emphasised that while the Circuit has a competitive aspect, its essence transcends mere results. “More than times, what matters are the feelings,” he stated, highlighting the friendships, shared experiences, and opportunities to better understand the municipalities and their people.
The publication features a detailed overview of the 25 editions, including champions and personal stories that explain why so many have made running an integral part of their lives. Yeste expressed gratitude for the documentary contributions from Paco Villaescusa, Florencio García Garrido, and Pedro Onrubia, whose photographs helped recover some of the earliest graphic testimonies.
A poignant moment during the presentation was dedicated to Pepe Llorens, a historic runner from Caudete who passed away on 20 October at the age of 88. Having participated in over 700 popular races between 2003 and 2020, Llorens was remembered fondly by Yeste, who quoted him: “I don’t want to run faster, I just want to keep running.”
The event also served to honour the pioneers of provincial athletics, including the first women to participate in the Circuit's events. Yeste acknowledged that behind each of the approximately 3,500 current registrants lies a story worth telling, one that no single publication could fully encompass.
