Anti-racism is on the rise in Barcelona: "It's necessary to combat the rise of hate speech."

BarcelonaA Muslim woman with a shawl begins the five-kilometer journey breastfeeding her baby with her partner. This has been one of the images of The first edition of the Anti-Racist Race organized by the Top Manta union, an event that brought together 1,500 runners (numbers sold out) and thousands of spectators this Sunday, bringing the total to 10,000 attendees, according to the organizers. "It took a lot of fighting to hold this race because the city doesn't accept these types of resources and races to raise awareness of causes like the fight against racism. Sport remains a tool for inclusion," Omaima claimed at the ARA after crossing the finish line, still with her heart rate altered.

The landscape of Plaça de Sants, the start and finish area, showed, even before 10 a.m., the race's start time, and under summer temperatures, that this was no ordinary sporting event. Anti-racist slogans blared from the organizers' megaphones, and the crowd displayed Palestinian flags (several runners also brought them) and banners from the Renters' Union. "If we can contribute in any way, whatever it takes. People have really gotten involved with the race, and it fills me with joy to see how they support social causes. If I'm already happy when I run a normal race, imagine today with the great atmosphere there is," explains Roger, one of the first runners to reach the finish line.

The Anti-Racism Race, which was won by Ramatouile Krubally (19:01) in the women's category and Martí Gutiérrez Farré (15:41) in the men's category, featured the support of well-known faces such as Oleguer Presas. The former Barça player, accompanied by his family, spoke to ARA. "A race like this is necessary at a complex time in terms of public opinion and the rise of hate speech. We can do fun and vindictive things, and it pleases me to see this diversity, which is a reflection of the society we live in," he said. Andrea was next to him, grabbing some fruit from the refreshments offered by the organizers after completing the five kilometers through the streets of Sants and Les Corts. "I normally run 10-kilometer races or half marathons; I've never run five before. But this one is special because it's important in today's society to go out and raise awareness of these values."

They all agree that if there's a second edition of the Anti-Racist Race, they'll definitely sign up. "I wish this race were held twice a year; it makes me proud," says Mohamed. In the Plaça de Sants itself, several runners have taken off their shirts to better withstand the heat while taking souvenir photos. But a couple are still wearing them, and you can read the slogan "Stop stopping me."