The most emotional moments of the Xel-Há Triathlon 2023

One of the most special moments has arrived for Xel-Há Park: the celebration of its anniversary with the Xel-Há Triathlon. In addition to being special for this reason, this sports event in the Riviera Maya is filled with all kinds of emotions, but especially with pride, motivation, and that feeling we have when we achieve a goal: we feel good, full of energy, vital, alive, and we think we can conquer the world.

In this article, I will tell you about six moments that touched us the most and filled us with joy.

Seeing Olympic triathlete Crisanto Grajales compete and win

For those who don't know him, Crisanto Grajales is an outstanding Mexican triathlete, born on January 9, 1985, in Xalapa, Veracruz. With an impressive sports career, Grajales has represented Mexico in numerous international triathlon competitions. His dedication and skills have led him to achieve significant accomplishments over the years. 

Crisanto has participated in multiple Pan American Games and Olympics, standing out for his perseverance and competitive spirit. His focus on physical training, mental resilience, and technique has been fundamental to his success in the demanding discipline of triathlon, which combines swimming, cycling, and running.  

In addition to his outstanding performance in competitions, Grajales has also been an inspiration to the Mexican youth, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. His dedication to sports and his international achievements have contributed to the growth and recognition of triathlon in Mexico, establishing him as a role model in the national and international sports scene. 

Seeing triathletes of all ages reach the finish line.

Regardless of who came in first, second, or third place, everyone who crosses the finish line is a winner. In the Xel-Há Triathlon, there are categories ranging from children to those over 70 years old, so we saw a great diversity of people swimming, cycling, and running.

As a spectator, the moment when we see triathletes approaching the finish line, crossing it, celebrating, and reuniting with their loved ones is an unparalleled emotion. It undoubtedly fills us with enthusiasm and motivation to achieve great goals.

Seeing the winners step onto the podium.

The awards ceremony is also an emotional moment worth witnessing. At the end of each day of the event, all participants and their families are gathered in the main tent to celebrate and take photos on the podium for first, second, and third place in each category.

In 2023, the winners in the elite categories were:

Women's:

First place: Luisa Daniela Baca

Second place: Natalia Casas Gallegos

Third place: Maria Fernanda Salazar Hernández

Men's:

First place: Crisanto Grajales

Second place: Miguel Angel Aleman Marquez

Third place: Yahel Vladimir González Melendez

The women in the Solo Novatas category.

As the name suggests, this category is exclusively for women who are running their first triathlon. This year, a special group of women participated, and they can be identified by their pink caps during the swimming portion.

Something I really like is that women of all ages participate, which is very motivating because it shows that, regardless of your age or stage in life, there is always an opportunity to do and achieve something as significant as completing a triathlon for the first time.

Seeing families compete together.

Just like Xel-Há and all the parks and hotels of Xcaret, the triathlon shares unique moments among families and friends. On the second day of the event, children's categories also participate, and it's heartwarming to see complete families achieve this dream together.

Personally, seeing moms and dads cheering on their kids in their first triathlons is something that moves me a lot, as it is an accomplishment for both parents and children.

Knowing that it's for a good cause.

The Xel-Há Triathlon is also known by many as the Green Triathlon, and this is because, in addition to making donations to the Red Cross every year, it also supports the Sea Turtle Conservation Program of Flora, Fauna, and Culture of Mexico A.C. Additionally, this year, they announced that all proceeds from the event would be used to support the victims of Hurricane Otis in Acapulco, Guerrero.

What was your favorite moment of the Xel-Há Triathlon? Tell us your story in a comment.