The Cabildo of Lanzarote, through the Department of Social Welfare and Inclusion, hosted the open day ‘Women of sand and strength’ last Saturday, November 15, an initiative framed within the island's programming for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (25N).
The event aimed to boost women's participation in Canarian wrestling and reinforce the message of equality and female empowerment in the face of gender-based violence, while also paying tribute to those who have made history in this sport, highlighting their contribution through equality, respect, and collective strength.
The president of the Cabildo of Lanzarote, Oswaldo Betancort, highlighted that this day represents the spirit of an island that moves forward, that listens, and that protects. "When we talk about equality, we are talking about concrete actions like this one, which allow women to occupy the place they deserve also in traditional sports spaces," he added.
Betancort added that "Canarian wrestling is part of our identity, and it is essential that new generations see that this sport is also written in the feminine, with role models, talent, and values that inspire all of society."
The Minister of Social Welfare and Inclusion, Marci Acuña, who attended the event, emphasized that "this day had the purpose of combining sports practice with a clear message of strength and resilience for all the women on the island." Acuña explained that these events are a reflection of the island institution's commitment to equality and violence prevention.
Participation, Sport, and Empowerment
The activity, held at the Lanzarote Sports City, featured the participation of Noelia Cabrera and Isabel Lorenzo, key figures in this sport, who offered demonstrations and shared their personal and professional experiences with attendees. During the event, participants enjoyed practical workshops, sports exhibitions, and motivational talks.
Furthermore, the event highlighted the work of the Tinecheide Wrestling Club, the only women's Canarian wrestling club in Lanzarote, whose commitment and track record have been decisive in promoting grassroots sports and paving the way for new generations of female wrestlers. Its president, Francisco García “Curry”, has maintained a constant effort to support, train, and showcase female talent in a historically male-dominated sport, consolidating the club as an island benchmark
Likewise, the day also served to highlight the pedagogical and social advances achieved in the Canary Islands in terms of equality and the protection of women's rights. In recent decades, the region has promoted awareness, education, and social protection policies that have allowed more and more women to occupy leadership positions in various fields, including sports. in leadership positions in various fields, including sports.
