23rd Descent of the Sella
The 1959 edition marked a milestone in the Sella’s international reach: foreign participation expanded to 11 countries, including Denmark’s first appearance, reflecting the growing European interest in this classic Asturian event.
That year saw the introduction of the Todazo Prize, named in honor of Ernesto Todazo, founder of Italy’s Circolo Canottieri Tirrenia. The award was given to those who managed to break the course record, encouraging excellence and competition.
On the sporting side, victory went to the local pair from Ribadesella, José Luis Gutiérrez and Juan Miguel Feliz, who set a new record with a time of 1 hour and 30 minutes. Their achievement made them the first recipients of the Todazo Prize, leaving a lasting mark on the history of the Descent of the Sella.
tag: international descent of the river sella 1959
