Korrika

[9] However, this non-competitive relay race brings the whole territory together through what can be described as "a joyful and cheery atmosphere for the two weeks in which it is held".

[10] During Franco's dictatorship (1939–1975), the Basque language underwent a rapid decline through a long period of oppression in Spain.

[11][13] Concerned by the weakening of the language, people started creating clandestine organisations where Basque was taught.

[14] The newly created Basque movement put together the association AEK for the teaching and alphabetization of the language.

The first Korrika took place in 1980, and since, every race has followed a different route, although it always endeavours to cover a significant proportion of the historical Basque territories.

The race is conducted in an extremely jovial, uncompetitive spirit, accompanied by music and general fanfare, with roads thronged with spectators.