Kick-Off Meeting in Spain Sets the Pace for “Parents Relay for Mental Health” On January 23–24, 2025, the Parents Relay for Mental Health project held its official kick-off meeting in Castellón, Spain. Hosted by Club Atletismo Playas de Castellón, the event brought together dedicated teams from Spain and Bulgaria to set the stage for this important new initiative. Representing Darko Athletics Team from Bulgaria, three team members took part in the discussions and collaborative activities alongside six representatives from the coordinating team. Together, the partners explored the project’s mission, planned the timeline of upcoming activities, and aligned on their shared vision to improve mental health awareness through inclusive, family-focused sports events. The programme included in-depth presentations, engaging group sessions, and a visit to the local athletics track. A special moment during the visit was the tour of the Hall of Fame, where part of the host club’s impressive trophy collection is proudly displayed — a strong symbol of dedication and achievement. This meeting marked a strong and inspiring beginning to the project. With clear goals and a motivated team, the Parents Relay for Mental Health initiative is ready to make a positive impact on families and communities across Europe.

Sofia: Family Relays Mark a Meaningful Milestone On June 8, the athletics track in Sofia transformed into a space of family unity and shared joy during a special event under the Parents Relay for Mental Health Erasmus+ project. Organised by Darko Athletics Team, the event brought together children, mothers, and fathers to form mixed teams in a simple but powerful format — a 3x50m relay where each family member took a turn running. Laughter, cheering, and determination filled the air as parents stepped into their children’s world, running not just for them, but with them. Though short in distance, the relays made a big impact. For many parents, this was a rare chance to actively participate in their child’s sport; for the children, it was a proud moment to share the track with their family. The races became a living example of how shared activities can strengthen both bodies and bonds. The event highlighted one of the core messages of the project: improving mental health and emotional well-being through quality time and physical movement shared between generations. There were no medals — but plenty of smiles, applause, and unforgettable memories. This was more than a race. It was a celebration of togetherness and a reminder that when families move together, they grow stronger together. Castellón: Parents and Kids Share the Track — and the Joy On June 13, the closing event of the athletics season in Castellón took a special turn as parents joined their children in a multi-event sports celebration under the Parents Relay for Mental Health Erasmus+ project. Organised by Club Atletismo Playas de Castellón, the event invited families to participate together in the same athletic disciplines. Side by side, parents and children sprinted 60 metres, threw the vortex, jumped for distance — and finally teamed up for a 2x50m relay that capped off the day with smiles and cheers. This was more than just a closing ceremony. It was a hands-on experience of the project’s message: that shared physical activity can boost family bonds, support emotional well-being, and turn ordinary moments into something truly meaningful. Inspired by their Bulgarian partners from Darko Athletics Team, the organisers successfully combined tradition and innovation — allowing parents to understand the world their kids train in and feel the excitement of competing together. There were no prizes or podiums, but plenty of proud faces, high-fives, and hugs. The event showed that small steps taken as a family can lead to stronger relationships and better mental health — one jump, one throw, and one relay at a time.