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. Second Transnational Meeting in Sofia Strengthens Collaboration and Exchange Between 10 and 14th September, the second transnational meeting of the Parents Relay for Mental Health project took place in Sofia, Bulgaria, hosted by Darko Athletics Team. The event gathered representatives from the Spanish partner Club Atletismo Playas de Castellón and the Bulgarian hosts for several days of productive discussions, training observations, and knowledge exchange. The meeting was held at the National Stadium “Vasil Levski”, where the partners discussed the project’s progress, analyzed the results of the surveys on mental health and sports participation, and shared good practices for organizing family relay events. Participants also worked on developing training materials for parents and sports workers, ensuring that the upcoming national activities will be meaningful and impactful for the local communities. One of the most inspiring moments was the visit to the Darko Athletics Team training sessions, where Playas representatives observed the practical work with young athletes and families. They found innovative ideas they plan to adapt and implement in their own activities. Later that day, the group continued the exchange with discussions and workshops that highlighted the importance of combining theory with real experience. The final day of the meeting was dedicated to a public family event at Serdika Shopping Center, where children and parents took part in short relays and interactive activities promoting physical activity, teamwork, and family connection. The lively atmosphere attracted many visitors, offering an open invitation to discover the joy of movement and the values of the project. The friendly atmosphere, shared meals, and teamwork between the two clubs once again proved the value of Erasmus+ cooperation. As the partners said their goodbyes, everyone left Sofia with renewed energy, motivation, and a shared vision to keep promoting family participation and mental health through sport. The meeting was organized as part of the Parents Relay for Mental Health Erasmus+ project, co-funded by the European Union.

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. Family Relays Bring Joy and Inclusion to Alobras On 14 August, in the small village of Alobras, located in the heart of Teruel, a special sports day brought together children, parents, and the local community under the Parents Relay for Mental Health project. The event was part of the village’s traditional fiestas and created a space where families could enjoy running together and share unforgettable emotions. For many of the participants, this was their first encounter with athletics. Competing side by side, parents and children formed teams for a 2x50m relay through the charming streets of Alobras. The atmosphere was full of excitement, laughter, and proud smiles as families cheered each other on. It was a true celebration of togetherness, sport, and community values. The organization of the event reflected the project’s commitment to sustainability and creativity. The medals and podium were handmade from ecological materials such as wood, crafted by a local artist. These small details highlighted the project’s environmental awareness and the importance of connecting sports with care for nature. This event, organized by Club Atletismo Playas de Castellón within the Parents Relay for Mental Health Erasmus+ Sport project, co-funded by the European Union, reminded everyone that sport can unite generations, create memories, and strengthen both family and community bonds. Family Spirit Shines at the Cantavieja Training Camp Between 28 and 31 August, the town of Cantavieja became the meeting point for young athletes and families during a summer training camp organized by Club Atletismo Playas de Castellón within the Parents Relay for Mental Healthproject. The camp combined sport, friendship, and education, creating an inspiring experience for all participants. During several days of shared training sessions, children and parents learned new techniques, developed teamwork skills, and enjoyed spending quality time together in nature. Every participant received a special t-shirt and bib number, making them feel part of one big family and easily recognized as members of the same group. For many of the local children, training alongside the Playas athletes created a sense of belonging and motivation to continue practicing athletics. The closing day of the camp was marked by a family relay, where parents and children ran together, showing enthusiasm and strong team spirit. Each young athlete received an eco-friendly medal handmade from wood, a small but meaningful souvenir from the event. The winners of each family relay were awarded special prizes, celebrating effort, participation, and joy rather than competition. The Cantavieja camp reflected the essence of the Parents Relay for Mental Health Erasmus+ Sport project, co-funded by the European Union — promoting family unity, healthy lifestyles, and mental well-being through accessible and sustainable sports activities.