Sponsors

The Loja town council and their sports department have given full support to the race providing the infrastructure required to make this a top event including the use of the new sports stadium and funding for the Gala dinner. ( www.aytoloja.org )

Eletewater are again providing what we consider to be the best electrolyte product on the market. Proper hydration, as against being ‘well hydrated’ is important and being hydrated with just pure water is a big cause of blisters. You can be well hydrated but missing the important sodium content gained by adding Eletewater or other brands of electrolytes. The extra fluid accumulates in the tissues of the feet causing swelling and then blisters. This is the third year they have supported us and once again every competitor will have enough provided for the entire race plus it will be available in the race shop. ( www.eletewater.co.uk )

The Tetrasock : 5 separate toe sleeves mean a healthier and more comfortable sock. Moisture and friction free. The perfect choice for Al Andalus competitors. Performance toesocks will be for sale at a special race price and amongst the prizes. ( www.injinji.com - www.injinji.es )

I like Injinji as a liner but for longer races I also recommend you wear a wool sock over them. TEKO make an excellent Merino wool sock using certified organic wool farming, chlorine-free treatment and the USA factory is wind-powered. The socks have seamless toes, ‘strike-zone’ cushioning, a fitted arch, heel, ankle and cuff, recycled polyester heel and toe for durability and ‘tekoMerino’ wool wicks moisture and regulates body temperature. These excellent socks will be available in the race shop and as prizes. (www.tekosocks.com )

UKGear produce very specialized footwear for the armed forces. This includes the PT-03Desert, perfect for desert stage races, a winter version for very cold/wet conditions and the PT-1000. This shoe is the toughest, most hardwearing shoe I have ever used. The 1000 refers to the 1000 mile minimum life that these shoes are built to cover and from personal experience I know they will do much more than this. This is an ideal shoe for this race and this year UKGear are providing over 1200 euros worth of shoes as prizes. ( www.ukgear.com )

Having the best hydration, socks and race shoes is one thing but being able to relax and recover after a stage without having to wear your race shoes is very important. Suecos (Swedish company with base in Barcelona) produce a range of specialized footwear using a technologically advanced material. The ‘clogs’ are widely used in hospitals and in the ‘hospitality’ trade and benefits include, they mold to feet, absorb weight, are ultralight, stimulate the flow and circulation of blood, they are antibacterial, breathable and easy to clean.  A Suecos ‘ALVA’ will be given to every race competitor as gift, and other models will be available in the race shop. These shoes should become a permanent addition to any runner’s race kit and should give many years service.
( www.suecos.eu )

Mountain King is donating Trail Blaze poles for the first 3 male and female competitors and we will also be selling them in the race shop. I am also taking pre orders for collection on arrival so if you are interested then please email me on paul@axarsport.com. As a guide, if you are under 178cm/5ft 10in choose the 110cm. Colours available, Black, Blue, Magenta or Orange. Race price 75 euros a pair.

The " Race " is based in the Hotel Manzanil and it will host the Gala dinner.( www.manzanil.com )