Spanish cyclist’s 22,000-km journey moves hearts with message "For a Flood-Resilient Go Noi”
DNO - The more than 22,000km transcontinental cycling journey of Spanish athlete Marino Izquierdo Juan came to an emotional close when he arrived in Go Noi Commune, Da Nang on December 25, carrying a powerful message about humanity and community solidarity.
Setting off from eastern Spain, Marino spent 11 months cycling across 20 countries and territories. More than a sporting challenge, the journey was a way for him to commemorate his late father whilst serving as a call to raise public awareness of cancer screening and to promote a healthier, more compassionate lifestyle.
Throughout his journey, Marino proactively connected with medical organizations and charitable funds at each stop to share his personal story, thereby spreading a message of empathy and human connection.
In Vietnam, through the support of the charitable organization “Giot Nuoc” (Water Droplet) Foundation and the Vinh Duc General Hospital in Dien Ban Town, Marino learned about Go Noi, a low-laying area that for generations has suffered from devastating floods, where the haunting fear of property damage and loss of life remains ever-present every rainy season.
The shared memories of flooding in his hometown of Valencia, Spain, and the harsh realities facing Go Noi resonated deeply with Marino. Moved by this sense of connection, he decided to donate his bicycle along with his entire travel gear to the "Love for Go Noi" Fund.
The bicycle is not only a means of transport but also a trusted companion on his long journey. Along with it came Marino’s racing jersey, helmet and a commemorative badge presented by the Mayor of Massamagrell in the Valencia Community. The meaningful donation was formally handed over to representatives of the "Love for Go Noi" Fund in the presence of members of the Water Drops Fund (France), the Embassy of Spain in Vietnam, and local residents.
Right at the entrance to Go Noi Commune, Marino and members of the "Love for Go Noi" Fund planted a kapok tree as a living marker of the end of his transcontinental journey. More than 40 high school pupils lined the road to warmly welcome him, a gesture that deeply moved the visitor from the other side of the globe.
Alongside this event, a photo exhibition titled “Water Memories 2025” was held at the Au Lac Art Wood Co., Ltd. The exhibition showcased 10 photos documenting Marino’s journey, 15 works depicting Go Noi in the past, and 70 vivid images capturing daily life in flood-affected areas. The photos not only reflected daily life and relief efforts but also honored the spirit of mutual support and compassion among the local people.
Under the slogan “For a Flood-Resilient Go Noi”, Marino’s bicycle and gear will be auctioned in Ho Chi Minh City, alongside three wooden art works by Au Lac and the “Water Memories” photo collection comprising 100 photographs.
All proceeds will go toward the “For a Flood-Resilient Go Noi” campaign, aimed at purchasing flood-rescue equipment to strengthen local emergency response capacity.