On Saturday 3 August, the 42nd edition of the MAPFRE King's Cup concluded with a trophy ceremony at Ses Voltes, where King Felipe presided over the event and presented the awards to the winners of the eight categories of the competition. The Copa del Rey de Vela not only stood out for its exciting competitions, but also for highlighting the value of sport for health and general well-being.
The sport of sailing, like any physical activity, has multiple health benefits, but being a team sport whose results also depend on external agents, it requires very intense mental control and concentration. Participating in competitions of this calibre requires a high level of physical fitness, coordination and teamwork. These aspects promote improved cardiovascular health, muscular endurance and agility. In addition, sailing provides a natural environment that promotes mental well-being, helping to reduce stress and improve mood.
During the ceremony, several important authorities, including political leaders and representatives from the business and sports sectors, were present. This year's champions included teams of various nationalities, highlighting the international and competitive spirit of the regatta.
The winners were:
- Altavista Soho Theatre in Watches of Switzerland ORC 0 (Spain)
- Elena Nova in Odilo ORC 1 (Spain)
- Fala Pouco in Balearia ORC 3 (Spain)
- April Fish in ClubSwan 42 (Spain)
- Kimpton Hotels Les Roches in Sandberg Estates J70 (Spain)
- RCN Vigo in Women's Cup Class (Spain)
- Katara in Altavista ORC 2 (Argentina)
- Earlybird in ClubSwan 50 (Germany)
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Elena Sanz, CEO of MAPFRE Iberia, emphasised the importance of the regatta for the company and its commitment to sporting values such as teamwork and trust. She also highlighted MAPFRE's commitment to sustainability and support for social inclusion through initiatives such as the Galaxie sailboat, an electric 100% school boat that integrates young people at risk of social exclusion.
The MAPFRE King's Cup also stood out for its sustainability efforts, with programmes to reduce environmental impact and avoid the presence of microplastics. MAPFRE supports these initiatives as part of its broader commitment to sustainability, demonstrating that companies can generate material and ethical wealth.
Winners' Testimonials
The regatta champions shared their experiences and emotions. José Ballester from Fala Pouco, Javier Banderas from Teatro del Soho Altavista, and Patricia Suárez from Citanias RCN Vigo expressed their satisfaction for the results obtained and highlighted the importance of teamwork and preparation to achieve success.
Luis Bugallo, helmsman of the Kimpton Hotels Les Roches, Sandberg Estates J70 champion:
"It was a great day. We've already won the title after the first two races, so the last one was a bit more about enjoying ourselves. The truth is that we have sailed very well. Happy, very happy. In this Copa del Rey we have been able to see that the World Championship is going to be very tough, because this regatta gives many opportunities, doors open and close. In this regatta we have two consecutive second places. This title is worth the other two we didn't win"..
The Copa del Rey de Vela is undoubtedly a highly prestigious sporting event, but also a testament to the value of sport for health and wellbeing. It promotes physical activity, teamwork and sustainability, while supporting social causes and encouraging a healthy lifestyle. These values make the Copa del Rey a shining example of how sport can make a positive contribution to society.
