Jose Antonio Soto Rojas, born on March 5, 1947, in Santander, is a distinguished figure known for his remarkable contributions to the world of athletics. His career spans decades, marked by an unwavering commitment to long-distance running and a relentless pursuit of promoting ultramarathons in Spain and across the globe.
Soto Rojas began his journey as an athlete in 1961, and since then, he has participated in over 700 races, showcasing his endurance and skill across cross-country, track, and road running events. Notably, in 1975, he made history by being among the first Spaniards to compete in the prestigious Boston Marathon, the oldest marathon in the world, alongside Jose Miguel Feijóo and Jose Maria Odriozola.
From 1975 to 1979, Soto Rojas dedicated himself to promoting ultramarathons in Spain, participating in events in France, the United States, and organizing the 100 Km track event in La Albericia, where he finished solo in an impressive 8 hours, 40 minutes, and 39 seconds. His efforts to popularize long-distance running in Cantabria and Spain culminated in the creation of the 100-kilometer Pedestrian International City of Santander, endorsed by the Caja de Ahorros in 1980.
His persistence and dedication bore fruit when, in 1985, the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation granted the Santander race the status of the Official Spanish Championship for 100 kilometers. This achievement was further embellished by his triumph in the 100-kilometer race in New York the same year. His influence extended globally as he was hired to participate in and organize the 100 km of Acámbaro in Mexico in 1986 and represented Spain in the IAU World Championship of 100 Km in Torhout, Belgium, and Philadelphia, USA, in 1987. Finally in 1988 he organise the IAU 100 km Championships in Santander, Spain.
Soto Rojas's impact on ultramarathons continued to reverberate, as he organized events in Brazil, delivered lectures, and promoted the sport in various educational and athletic institutions. His dedication and expertise were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Silver Plate from the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation in 2004 and the Best Sports Promotion Award at the Gala del Deporte Cantabro in the same year. His exceptional organizational skills were acknowledged by the Cantabrian Athletics Federation, which honored him during the 2010-2011 season.
Throughout his illustrious career, Soto Rojas has not only been an accomplished athlete but also a distinguished organizer, contributing significantly to the development and popularization of long-distance races. His involvement in various races, including marathons, 100-kilometer events, and 24-hour races, has left an indelible mark on the global running community. His personal bests, including a 30-kilometer run in 1 hour, 50 minutes, and 5 seconds, a marathon in 2 hours, 53 minutes, and 9 seconds, and a 100-kilometer run in an impressive 7 hours, 58 minutes, stand as a testament to his extraordinary endurance and skill.
As a member of Honor of the International Association of Ultrarunners and an IAU honorary member, Soto Rojas's legacy continues to inspire athletes and enthusiasts worldwide. His unwavering dedication, remarkable achievements, and enduring impact on the world of ultramarathons position him as a true icon in the realm of long-distance running.
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