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| Rome's Corsa di Miguel Ignites Passion |
ROME – A sea of runners, including a vibrant contingent of Filipinos, surged through the streets of Rome on January 19th for the 26th Corsa di Miguel, a resounding testament to the enduring spirit of peace and social justice.
The race, held in memory of the esteemed poet and athlete Miguel Sánchez, saw a record-breaking 13,000 participants, a powerful display of unity and shared purpose.
"This is a race of records, a testament to the years of dedication to Miguel's memory," declared Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, emphasizing the event's significance. "Long live Miguel, long live peace, democracy, and the unwavering pursuit of human rights."
Gualtieri further highlighted the Corsa di Miguel as a beacon of inclusion, stating, "Our city stands firmly against all forms of racism and discrimination. This race proudly carries that flag, striving for a more just and equitable society."
A notable milestone was achieved this year with over 3,000 women crossing the finish line at the iconic Stadio Olimpico, including Filipina runner Salvacion Patao, who shared her excitement: "This was my first Corsa di Miguel, and I'm overjoyed! The energy was incredible, and finishing at the Olympic Stadium was truly special."
The "Onda Donna" (Wave Women) initiative, a collective of local and international female runners, including Filipinos, played a vital role in boosting female participation.
Beyond the main 10-kilometer race, the event included a 3K run, encouraging young runners to embrace the spirit of the Corsa di Miguel.
"Reaching nearly 13,000 registered participants is a remarkable achievement," expressed Alessandro Onorato, Councilor for Major Events, Sport, Tourism, and Fashion. "Running alongside so many friends in support of a cause I deeply believe in was an unforgettable experience."
The event also witnessed the inspiring presence of Rigivan Ganeshamoorthy, a gold medalist in discus at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, lending his support at the start line of the 10K race.
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