Purito Kids Cycling Event Draws 86 Young Riders in Encamp Amid Heat

The Purito Kids cycling event in Encamp attracted nearly 100 young riders on Saturday, continuing its steady growth despite extreme heat that led organizers to dismantle the course ahead of schedule.

Joaquim 'Purito' Rodríguez, the former professional cyclist behind the event, reported 86 pre-registrations, expecting last-minute entries to reach the usual limit of 100 participants. "I've seen a lot of kids," he said, highlighting the increasing interest from children. Rodríguez called the route "relatively difficult" and "quite technical," noting he had tested it personally and found it demanding.

Encamp's cònsol menor, Xavier Fernàndez, described the Purito Kids as a firmly established highlight, with children now as excited as adults for the annual fixture. He praised the event's organization and the presence of guests like MotoGP rider Jorge Martín. Fernàndez emphasized its economic benefits, particularly with this year's finish line relocated to Plaça de Sant Miquel in the town center. The change keeps riders and families in the urban area longer, boosting activity at restaurants, hotels, and shops. "It really helps our restaurateurs see an even greater impact than in previous years," he noted.

Heat proved the day's biggest challenge, impacting riders and staff alike. Around 11:45 a.m., officials took down the circuit early to safeguard the young participants. Looking ahead to Sunday's main ciclotourist event, Rodríguez stressed caution in a pre-race briefing, urging riders not to feel compelled to finish if conditions proved too taxing. He advised choosing shorter routes to avoid risks, drawing parallels to elite events like the Tour de France where "the heat is very tough" and competitors "suffer a lot." Common sense, he added, must guide decisions.