Santalucía Seniors Peru 2024 Challenge

José Antonio Fernández, a former pilot and adventurer, has pushed boundaries since his childhood in Orense up to his retirement in Madrid. His greatest achievement was a 7-day trek in the Rocky Mountains, culminating at Mount Whitney. With a career in military and commercial aviation, José Antonio stands out for his motivation, assertiveness, and teamwork. A lover of nature, reading, and his family, he approaches life with perfectionism and high self-demand.

Pilar Utrilla, a Madrid native passionate about sports, reading, and culture, has explored mountains around the world, from the Himalayas to the Pyrenees. Her love for the mountains began at age 19, a milestone that changed her life. She worked for over 20 years at the Museo del Prado, which she considers a part of herself. Now retired, she spends her time with her husband, traveling and taking on new sporting challenges, keeping her passion for adventure alive.

Álvaro Vallés, from Rafales (Teruel), is a retired nurse with an extensive career at Madrid’s La Paz Hospital. Passionate about cycling, hiking, and diving, he is also known for his skill in building solar devices, his environmental care, and tending to his garden. Recognized for his empathy and ability to motivate others, he lives his love of adventure through annual climbs to peaks like Aneto and Monte Perdido and underwater explorations in the Red Sea, fondly recalling youth camping trips in the Añisclo Canyon.

Leticia Herrería, born in Santoña (Cantabria) and resident in Madrid, former national Rhythmic Gymnastics team gymnast. At the age of 16, he won the bronze medal at the 7th World Championship 1975. Former Physical Education teacher, After 37 years teaching at Colegio San Patricio in Madrid, Leticia has devoted herself to her passions: photography, languages and travel. In 2023, he realised his dream of giving around the world in four months.

Pepe García, from Tomelloso (Ciudad Real), is an entrepreneur in telecommunications and trade of Cuban and Asturian products. A sports enthusiast, he has competed in triathlons, marathons, and ultratrails such as Penyagolosa and Transgrancanaria. After retiring in 2021 and completing two master’s degrees in personal development and online sales, he founded “Súper Abuelos en el Mundo” (SAM) to help retirees generate extra income. He is also a volunteer with Fent Camí de Alcoi, supporting people with disabilities on adapted mountain excursions.