From Migrant Patera to Canary Islands Champion: Moroccan Runner’s Inspiring 400m Triumph

After an unsuccessful first attempt to reach the Canary Islands by swimming at a young age, Zakaria managed to reach the archipelago a few years later on board a patera to build a better future for himself. Today, he resides in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria where, through perseverance and patience, he has won the Canary Islands championship title in the 400 meters category three times. The Moroccan is still waiting for his situation to be regularized, reports La Provincia.

Zakaria loved to run to pass the time when he was in a minor center. "In the center, we were bored, there was nothing to do, and I told myself that in Morocco, I loved to train; I was registered at the gym and everything," he recalls. One of the educators noticed that he had talent and decided to support him. Thus, the young man was registered in a sports club, began to work with his first coach and participated in his first competition, where he won his first medal with a time of 47 seconds.

But the young man is aiming higher. "My goal is to run with the best athletes in Spain. I’m on the right track to run 46 seconds next year, and that’s how I’m improving." For now, Zakaria is focusing on renewing his residence permit in order to find a job. "Before, I thought that with this sport, I would find a lot of help to move things forward, but no. It’s a very difficult path, but I don’t stop. I continue to fight," he says.

At 24 years old, Zakaria is proud of his journey. He has the support of his partner, Ainhoa, whom he met two years ago, and his family in Morocco who follow his career with great pride. In addition to his commitment to athletics, the young Moroccan is passionate about cooking. "When I don’t have good results in a competition, I come here and the first thing I do is tidy up the house because I love it. I feel good at home cleaning, cooking and doing things. If I get a work permit, the first thing I’ll do is try to work in the kitchen," he confides.