The municipality of Colmenar Viejo will begin the application period for the XI Sports Excellence Awards in June. These awards aim to recognize the achievements of local athletes during the 2025 and 2026 seasons in high-level competitions. One of this year's new features is the expanded access for athletes with less extensive track records or who do not meet the previously required minimum age.
The Department of Sports has set the deadline for submitting candidacies from June 16 to June 30. The total budget allocated for this edition amounts to 35,000 euros, which will be distributed among the awardees based on their category and age.
“"These awards aim to support Colmenar athletes who have achieved excellent results and who, through their effort, work, and dedication, highlight the demands of high-level competition. They also recognize the promotion of our municipality in the various national and international sporting events in which they participate."
The main novelty of this call is the inclusion of profiles that were previously excluded. Now, athletes who do not achieve the minimum merits established by the scale or who do not meet the minimum age can be considered for recognition, thus expanding the number of residents benefiting from the program.
To be eligible, applicants must be between 12 and 35 years old at the closing date, or over 35 if they can prove significant international results with at least three countries and federation recognition. It is essential to be registered in Colmenar Viejo for a minimum of two years, hold a valid national federation license, and have competed during the 2025-2026 period.
Athletes will be classified into three groups (A, B, and C) based on the significance of their achievements, which will determine the monetary amount of the award. Group A includes achievements such as being among the top twenty in the world or the top three in Spain in Olympic disciplines. Group B covers rankings between fourth and tenth place in absolute Spanish championships, and Group C includes successes at the regional level or participation in top-tier national teams.
The amounts vary: 3,000 euros for Group A (under 35 years old) and 1,200 euros (over 35). For Group B, it's 1,500 euros (under 35) and 600 euros (over 35). For Group C, it's 1,000 euros (under 35) and 400 euros (over 35). If the total awards exceed 35,000 euros, the amounts will be reduced proportionally. Otherwise, they could be increased up to a maximum of 4,000 euros (under 35) and 1,500 euros (over 35).
The call specifies that classifications from a single league or championship match will not be considered, nor will results from university championships. In sports with multiple divisions, only first-division rankings will be scored. A championship will be considered international if at least three countries compete and it is recognized by the corresponding federation. Merits already submitted in previous editions will not be re-evaluated.
