15th Descent of the Sella
In 1951, the race officially adopted the name “International Descent of the Sella”, as Portugal, Belgium, France, and Italy became the first foreign countries to participate, marking the start of its international appeal.
The unique features of the Sella River surprised foreign teams: its special course, festive atmosphere, and rules different from other races at the time. Even the canoes used were specially designed to suit the river’s characteristics.
That year also saw the first appearance of flower necklaces, a decorative element that would become a colorful and distinctive part of the Sella Festival’s identity.
In sporting results, the winners were Arturo Castro and Ramón Prieto from Gijón with their canoe “Orbayu”, finishing in 1 hour, 45 minutes, and 27 seconds. José and Ceferino Fernández came second with “Rugidora” (1 h 45 min 52 s), while Vicente Titas and Eduardo Fernández of Villaviciosa finished third with “Rodiles” (1 h 46 min).
tag: international descent of the river sella 1951
