It beats the Spanish Getafe and Baza and replaces Lisbon in a prize awarded since 2001 by the ACES Europe association
The pavilions, stadiums, tracks, marinas, trails and charms of
Cartagena this Sunday earned the municipality the cataloging of
European City of Sport in the year 2022. The recognition comes from the non-profit association ACES Europe, which since the beginning of the century has promoted good habits and the practice of sport among the citizens of the European Union. Cartagena thus takes the baton from Lisbon, elected in 2021, and wins the game over other Spanish candidates such as those of Getafe and Baza.
The news received so far the applause of numerous sports clubs in the city, including Efesé. Cartagena presented its candidacy for these awards a few months ago and it was this Sunday when the mayor, the popular Noelia Arroyo, received a call from the secretary of the Association of Capitals and European Cities of Sport (ACES Europe), Hugo Alonso.
“The city is really a good example of sport for all as an instrument of health, integration, education and respect, which are the main objectives of the White Paper on European Sport,” said the president of ACES Europe, Gian Francesco. Lupattelli. “It has also developed an exemplary sports policy with beautiful facilities, programs and activities.”
From now on, Cartagena is already one of the European sports cities. Previously, Lisbon (2021), Malaga (2020), Budapest (2019), Fuenlabrada (2019), Sofia (2018), Marseille (2017), Prague (2016), Turin (2015), Cardiff (2014) and Antwerp were awarded. (2013), among others.
This statement
it does not imply any type of celebration or event for Cartagena. Not a cash prize either. It is a “symbolic” statement.Municipal sources point out to La VERDAD, which does imply a commitment to maintaining and expanding sports facilities, as well as giving priority to sports policies. An example is that throughout this month of October, at the beginning of November, the City Council will reopen the Sports Palace to 100% 15 years after the start of the works, with the opening of the 25-meter swimming pool.
Also, pointed out those same sources, “soon” a municipal delegation will receive the declaration of the European city of sport. The date and place is decided by the ACES association, probably in Brussels and with the presence of the cities and capitals that received this European welcome.
“Cartagena is history and sports, and some sports practices are pieces of historical heritage. There are more than 60,000 citizens who do sports on a regular basis in the different forms and facilities that the city offers, and the privileged location next to the Mediterranean, makes it one of the most important regatta courses in Europe and the best diving destination in Europe ”, highlighted the mayor, Noelia Arroyo.
.