Purito Kids Cycling Event Draws 86 Young Riders in Encamp Amid Heat
Despite scorching temperatures prompting an early course teardown, the event showcased growing youth enthusiasm for cycling. Local leaders hailed its economic boost from a central finish line drawing families to businesses.
Key Points
- Around 80 children aged 5-14 participated in non-competitive event at Parc de l’Ossa, featuring stars like Samuel Sánchez and Jorge Martín.
- Joaquim 'Purito' Rodríguez called circuit technically challenging; heat forced early shutdown for safety.
- Encamp official praises family appeal and economic boost from town-center finish.
- Main 10th edition ciclotourist drew 2,160 riders Sunday on 26-116km routes with new Pardines gravel.
Purito Kids Cycling Event Attracts Around 80 Young Riders in Encamp Despite Intense Heat
Around 80 children took part in the Purito Kids event at Encamp's Parc de l’Ossa on Saturday, a non-competitive gymkhana that kicked off the ciclotourist weekend. The gathering, aimed at boys and girls aged 5 to 14, featured prominent figures from cycling and motorcycling, including Samuel Sánchez, José Antonio Hermida, Marino Lejarreta, Jorge Martín, Aleix Espargaró, and Àlex Rins.
Joaquim 'Purito' Rodríguez, the former professional cyclist who founded the event, highlighted the circuit's challenges, describing it as "relatively difficult" and "quite technical." He confessed to struggling a bit during his own test ride. Intense heat led organizers to dismantle the course before noon, prioritizing the participants' safety.
Encamp's cònsol menor, Xavier Fernàndez, described the event as firmly established on the parish's sports calendar. He noted its seamless execution and appeal to families, with this year's finish line at Plaça de Sant Miquel in the town center encouraging longer visits to local restaurants, hotels, and shops.
The main Purito Andorra ciclotourist event, marking its 10th edition, drew more than 2,160 riders on Sunday. It offered routes of 26, 75, and 116 kilometers, all starting from Sant Julià de Lòria and concluding in Encamp. A key change this year was the inclusion of the Pardines gravel section, with the finish at Plaça de Sant Miquel. A briefing for participants took place in Sant Julià de Lòria the previous afternoon.
Rodríguez had cautioned riders beforehand against overexertion in the heat, recommending shorter options over full distances if needed, similar to decisions in pro races like the Tour de France.
Related Articles
Other articles from Catalan-language sources about the same story:
- Diari d'Andorra•
Una vuitantena d’infants participen en la Purito Kids
- El Periòdic•
La Purito Kids torna a omplir Encamp amb prop d’un centenar de joves ciclistes malgrat les altes temperatures
- Altaveu•
Més nens, més Encamp, molta Purito Kids i excessiva calor
- Diari d'Andorra•
La Purito Kids consolida el seu creixement i frega el centenar de participants