Barcelona Metro Stair Challenge Raises Over €17,000 for Children's Cancer

A total of 284 athletes participated in a charity stair climb at Barcelona's El Coll/La Teixonera metro station, raising over €17,000 for AFANOC, the Association of Families and Friends of Children with Cancer in Catalonia. The event, held on the L5 line, challenged participants to ascend 419 steps in a time trial format.

The sprint was organised by the TMB Foundation and TransPerfect Mountain Challenge, with sponsorship from elevator company ORONA and railway infrastructure firm PANDROL. Donations are still open until 31 May through a 'zero bib' initiative, allowing further contributions to the association.

Challenging Climb for a Cause

El Coll/La Teixonera is the deepest station in the TMB metro network, plunging more than 60 metres underground. Athletes faced an demanding route from the platform to the station vestibule, conquering all stair sections. The event ran in groups of 24, with participants descending to the start line by lift.

Once at the starting line, runners began the challenge in heats of four, with one-minute intervals, following the organisers' protocol. Timekeeping used SportIdent technology, with electronic cards and validation points at the start and finish. The TMB Athletic Club actively contributed by providing all necessary volunteers.

Community Support and Recognition

Laia Bonet, President of TMB, attended much of the event, supporting participants and highlighting the charity aspect of the race. After their climb, athletes enjoyed a solidarity vermouth provided by Idoni Boncor, a catering company focused on labour insertion. Idoni Boncor offered a selection of organic, local products made by local cooperatives.

This catering offer is a value-added feature of the TransPerfect Mountain Challenge project, which has supported AFANOC's work since 2018 by organising sports events with music and solidarity food. Prizes were awarded across five categories, with two special mentions for the youngest and oldest participants. TMB employees who took part also received recognition. Daniel Benito won the special category for people with disabilities.

Moving forward, the ongoing 'zero bib' initiative aims to increase the total funds raised for AFANOC, providing continued support for families of children with cancer in Catalonia.