This is how we experienced the On Squad Race in Barcelona: a unique experience with ON
Some events are remembered for their results. And others are remembered for everything that happens around them. The On Squad Race in Barcelona clearly belongs to the latter group.
A few days ago, we were fortunate to experience something very special with ON, one of the fastest-growing brands in the running world. It was a trip that allowed us to learn about some of the new products the Swiss company is preparing for 2027, share moments with runners and professionals from different countries, and, of course, enjoy a unique competition in one of Barcelona's most spectacular locations.
Because yes, there was a race. But the truth is that this experience was much more than that.
First hours in Barcelona and a very special visit
As soon as we arrived in Barcelona, we dropped off our bags and headed to the ON showroom. And that's where the adventure truly began.
Being able to enter that space and discover some of the new products the brand will launch in 2027 was truly amazing. We spent a good amount of time with the ON team, who showed us some of the products they are working on and explained what the entire experience awaiting us over the next few hours would be like.
It was one of those moments that reminds you why we are so passionate about this sport and everything surrounding the world of running.
A surprise waiting in the room
Afterward, we returned to the hotel to check in, and honestly, we didn't expect what we found when we opened the room door. On the bed, all the gear prepared for the competition was waiting for us.
The official On Squad Race shirt, ON shorts, socks, cap, and one of the brand's most anticipated models: the new On Cloudmonster 3, which would be our companions during the race.
It's those small details that make you feel part of something special.
Before the competition, we still had time to enjoy the atmosphere of Barcelona, stroll through the city, and start to feel those nerves that always appear when you know a race is approaching.
48 teams and an international competition
Hours later, the official briefing took place. There we learned all the details of the event and how the teams would be organized.
In total, 48 teams made up of four runners with representatives from different companies and countries. A very fun format that made the competition even more special.
And there was a prize that kept the excitement present from the very beginning. The winning teams would secure a spot to compete in the next edition of the On Squad Race in Los Angeles.
Some races are special for their route. And this, without a doubt, is one of them. The competition was held at Montjuïc Castle, one of Barcelona's most emblematic places with spectacular views over the entire city. Just the setting alone made it worthwhile to be there.
The dynamic was simple, but incredibly exciting. 400-meter relays where each runner had to complete their segment before passing the baton to the next teammate.
Tension, nerves, and the desire to do well were present throughout the day. But, above all, a good atmosphere and the feeling of sharing something very special with people from different parts of the world predominated.
Much more than a race
If there was one moment that particularly surprised us, it was everything that came afterward. Because when we crossed the finish line, one of the most interesting parts of the experience still remained.
The organization had prepared a spectacular recovery zone for all participants to recover after the effort. And absolutely nothing was missing.
There was food and drink to regain energy, live music with DJs, different rest areas, and muscle recovery devices that delighted many runners.
One of the most talked-about moments of the afternoon was the original tortilla burgers, which became one of the event's great gastronomic successes.
In addition, we were able to try different muscle massage and pressotherapy systems designed to aid recovery after the competition. The feeling was like being at a true running festival.
A spectacular final and a well-deserved prize for France
With our legs somewhat recovered, it was time to enjoy the grand final. The atmosphere was incredible. Runners, organization, and brands cheering on the finalist teams in a final race that was experienced with great intensity.
Finally, it was the French team that secured the victory, thus earning a spot to represent the competition in the next edition in Los Angeles.
And although we all wanted to win, the reality is that by then the general feeling was different. That of having lived an unforgettable experience.
The perfect finale
The adventure ended the next day with breakfast at the hotel and the opportunity to discuss everything experienced over the past few hours.
Because in the end, beyond the kilometers or the classification, what you truly take away from these types of events are the people, the conversations, and all those moments that don't appear in the official results.
According to our expert Jesús Sepulcre,
"The On Squad Race was much more than a competition. These are the kinds of experiences that remind you why we are so passionate about this sport.”
An unforgettable experience
The On Squad Race in Barcelona allowed us to get to know ON's philosophy better, discover some of the new products we will see in the coming years, and enjoy a unique competition in one of the most beautiful settings in the city.
But, above all, it left us with something we always look for when we travel to these kinds of events. Stories to tell and a strong desire to experience it again.
