43rd Descent of the Sella
New records were set in 1979: 636 canoes and 873 paddlers from 17 nations participated, with Ivory Coast joining for the first time. The Sella Descent had become part of the prestigious Grand Prix Marathon circuit, reinforcing its international stature.
Although Dionisio de la Huerta—the founder of the race—did not attend in person, he sent a message to the residents of Arriondas and Ribadesella asking them to decorate their homes in support. The enthusiastic response served as proof of the event’s massive following and was a key reason for Dionisio’s return the following year.
On the sporting side, victory went to the Irún pair Pedro Campo Lezama and Enrique López Sanz with a time of 1h 15min 54s, ahead of runners-up A. Montañés and Manuel Craviotto.
What happened in 1980? Click here
tag: international descent of the river sella 1979
