56º Descenso del Sella
The 1992 International Descent of the Sella was truly special, taking place during the Barcelona 1992 Olympic year, which affected both its date and the line-up. To allow top Spanish and international paddlers to compete in both events, the race was postponed from its traditional first Saturday of August to August 15th, 1992.
Despite coinciding with the Olympics, the Sella maintained its high competitive level. The start was particularly tense and chaotic, with several boats jumping early and breaking up the field from the very first meters. Still, the race remained thrilling over its 20 km course, with lively crowds lining the banks from Arriondas to Ribadesella.
In K2, victory went to the twin brothers Roberto and Jesús Martínez Villaverde, who showcased their local dominance with an official time of 1h 11min 33sec. Their experience and teamwork proved decisive in a race marked by fast starts and changing river flow in the height of summer.
In K1, the legendary José Ramón González Álvarez “Monotos” once again claimed victory, adding to his already impressive record and cementing his status as one of the Sella’s greatest solo paddlers.
The 1992 International Descent of the Sella attracted thousands of spectators and confirmed its status as one of Europe’s premier canoe marathon events and a must-see summer tradition in Asturias.
What happened in 1993? Click here
tag: international descent of the river sella 1992
