Xiquets de Reus mark 45 years with castell challenge
The Xiquets de Reus, the oldest casteller group in the Baix Camp region, are celebrating their 45th anniversary this year with a renewed drive to achieve a historic 'Tripleta Màgica' at the upcoming Castells Competition on 4 October 2026. The group, recognised by their distinctive chestnut-coloured shirts, has been a cornerstone of Reus's cultural fabric since 1981. As they approach the final stretch of the season, their focus is on building strength and cohesion during weekly rehearsals at their practice hall on Carrer de Rosich. President Aura Altés, in her second year leading the group, described the role as demanding but deeply rewarding, involving up to 250 messages a day and extensive coordination with the Ajuntament (city council) and emergency services. "There’s a lot of unseen work that keeps the group running," she said.
Pushing for the 'Tripleta Màgica'
The group’s main goal this season is to complete the 'Tripleta Màgica', successfully constructing a 3d9f, 4d9f, and 5d8 castell in the same performance. Joan Ferran, head of structures, confirmed the ambition, stressing the need for maximum participation in rehearsals to safely test these complex formations. The challenge is heightened by the limited number of practice opportunities. "We’d love to try every idea, but we don’t always have time," said Marina Bertran, the technical leader or 'cap de colla'. She oversees three core teams: the base (pinya and folres), the children (canalla), and the central structure (tronc).
Passing on tradition through youth
The canalla team, led by co-captains Lluna Pallejà and Aina Polo, currently includes around 40 children aged five to sixteen. Pallejà emphasised the psychological and educational aspects of training, noting that "the castells bring very strong emotions" and that trust is built by only attempting structures in public once they are solid in practice. Young casteller Ainet Badia, who regularly climbs to the top, said she focuses entirely on the structure when ascending. "I can’t think of anything else. If you’re afraid, don’t come," she said.
Veterans and evolution
Enric Puyuelo, known as Renfe, joined the group in 1986 and has held roles across the pinya and as cap de colla. He recalled that early rehearsals were slower, with manual positioning, compared to today’s digitally assisted organisation allowing for triple the number of attempts. Despite changes, he said the group’s social bond and role in Catalan culture remain unchanged. "Being in the middle of the festivities fills me deeply," he said, noting that casteller life helped him integrate into Reus despite not being born there. The season’s key events begin this Saturday at 6pm with the Diada de Misericòrdia, featuring the Moixiganguers d’Igualada and Castellers de Lleida. A further performance takes place on Friday, 25 September at 7pm in front of the Misericòrdia Sanctuary. The highlight will be the Castells Competition on Sunday, 4 October at Tarraco Arena Plaça, where Xiquets de Reus will perform alongside Catalonia’s top groups. Additional performances are scheduled for 18 October in Alcover and 24 October for the group’s own diada.
Reported by reusdigital.cat.
