A charity challenge to combat ALS and Alzheimer's
Bernat Xamena had a promising future ahead of him as a professional trumpet player. After being trained in New York and as a member of several international orchestras, he was seemingly destined for greatness. But fate had other plans. An unexpected challenge—focal dystonia—disrupted his musical journey, a disorder causing involuntary facial muscle spasms that robbed him of the control so vital to his craft.
Everything he had built with effort, passion and relentless discipline crumbled in an instant—but he refused to give up. With the unwavering support of his family, friends and professionals, he found his way to a new life. Yet, amid this transformation, Xamena emphasises one vital force that anchored his personal and emotional stability: sport.
“My life would have been completely different without dystonia, but it has also allowed me to discover a new version of myself..”
Content
[index]
Sport as therapy
Bernat Xamena’s sports therapy journey began in the water. Learning to swim as an adult, he faced his fears— battling against the water, his body, and his mind. Yet, just four months later, he was swimming in the open sea, and soon after, he conquered an IRONMAN. From that moment forward, Bernat has never stopped pushing his limits—and he has never faced those challenges alone.
Four islands, a charity challenge
In 2025, Bernat Xamena will take on his most formidable challenge yet: "4 Islands, a Charity Challenge"—a monumental feat of endurance. He will complete four long-distance triathlons—swimming, cycling, and marathon running—across four consecutive days on the four Balearic Islands: Formentera, Ibiza, Menorca and Mallorca.
But this journey is about more than just athletic achievement. Bernat’s mission carries a profound social and humanitarian purpose—raising funds and awareness for organisations that support individuals battling ALS and Alzheimer’s in the Balearic Islands.
Unwavering support
At Zafiro Hotels, we are proud to stand behind this remarkable social and solidarity challenge—offering not just accommodation and logistical support, but also embracing our core values of commitment, teamwork, and generosity.
Bernat Xamena himself emphasizes the crucial role Zafiro Hotels has played—not only in amplifying awareness of the challenge, but also in spearheading additional fundraising initiatives to further its impact. This kind of dedication showcases how businesses can make a real difference when they wholeheartedly invest in society and social causes.
“I’m not used to receiving such warm and human treatment as I have had from Zafiro Hotels.”
As a symbolic gesture, members of the Zafiro Hotels team will stand alongside Bernat Xamena in the final moments of his challenge, walking with him through the last stretch of the route in Mallorca. Beyond that, our hotel entertainment teams will also be organising charity games and bingo for guests to further strengthen the spirit of solidarity.
A conversation from the heart
Every great challenge carries a story, and every story deserves to be heard. For Bernat Xamena, that voice emerges from experience, humility, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.
We spoke with him at a pivotal moment in his preparation. Here, in his own words, he reflects on the origins of the challenge, the power of teamwork, the strength of solidarity, and the unwavering determination to never give up.
- How did the idea of tackling such a demanding challenge—four long-distance triathlons in four days, across four islands—come about?
I've been doing endurance sports for years, and I consider myself lucky. I believe that if I have the ability to help, I should. The idea of connecting the four Balearic Islands through a triathlon on each one has been on my mind for a while. I was inspired by a similar challenge in the Canary Islands, but I always knew I wanted to do it here, in my home.
With this challenge I want to make a small contribution to supporting people battling with Alzheimer's and ALS, while also giving back to the land that has given me so much.
- Why did you choose to highlight Alzheimer's and ALS in particular?
We must begin by focusing our efforts and objectives where they can make the greatest impact. One of the reasons I’ve chosen to dedicate this challenge to these diseases is that I’ve had the privilege of knowing many people who face Alzheimer’s and ALS with resilience, strength, and determination The life lessons I’ve received from them have shaped how I approach my own personal challenges
- Teamwork is one of your values. What role does the team play in this challenge, and how does their support influence your performance and motivation?
On this journey, teamwork isn’t just important—it’s essential. It all begins at home with the unwavering support of my wife. She understands me, encourages me, and allows me to dedicate myself fully to preparing for these events. Beyond that, I’m surrounded by an extraordinary group of people who give meaning to everything I do—my coach, the medical team, and all those who stand by me. Without them, none of this would be possible.
- What message would you like to send to people living with neurodegenerative diseases?
To all those individuals and families navigating these challenges—you are not alone. Even when the road feels difficult, it's crucial to hold onto hope and seek the light at the end of the tunnel. Through this challenge, I want to send a message of hope, recognising the quiet yet powerful efforts of those who face these diseases every single day.
- And any advice for people who aren’t sure where to start on rebuilding themselves?
The first and most important step is to not give up—to acknowledge the challenges ahead while finding the strength to take small steps forward. Sometimes, even the simplest actions can make a difference—talking to someone, asking for help, or sharing kindness with others. Rebuilding life after hardship isn’t easy, nor is it quick, but every effort matters. What truly makes a difference is surrounding yourself with people who care, who love us or can help us move forward together.
Join the challenge
Because of his illness, Bernat lost both his career and his passion—music. Today, after years of dedication, navigating both triumphs and setbacks, his drive, perseverance and enthusiasm has allowed him to rewrite his future. His journey stands as a powerful testament to resilience in motion. And you too can be part of this beautiful story.
The most direct way you can help is with a financial contribution as follows:
- Bizum to 02186
- Bank transfer to IBAN ES57 2100 8634 2902 0002 1004
- Through the Sportmaniacs Baleares platform.
However, there’s another invaluable way to contribute: your presence. If you’re passionate about sport or simply want to experience the true spirit of solidarity, you’re invited to join Bernat Xamena on one of the stretches of his journey between May 29 and June 1, 2025. It’s an open invitation to add kilometres in solidarity, reinforcing his belief:
“This challenge is not mine; it belongs to everyone who makes it possible.”
From trumpets to triathlons: a charity challenge to combat ALS and Alzheimer's
Four triathlons in four days. A challenge for Bernat Xamena that Zafiro Hotels is supporting to raise funds for people suffering from ALS and Alzheimer's.
Patrick Lange: “Mallorca is a paradise for triathletes”
Find out why Patrick Lange chooses Mallorca as his ultimate training destination, his favourite cycling route and the challenges that lie ahead.
Presenting the two women behind Zafiro Hotels
On International Women's Day, we celebrate the journey of Antonia and María Plomer, the visionary sisters who have made Zafiro Hotels a benchmark for the hotel industry in Mallorca.
Bringing smiles to people’s faces - the Zafiro Hotels commitment to the local community
“Sonrisa Médica” is celebrating its 30th anniversary together with Zafiro Hotels and a firm commitment to continue bringing smiles to the faces of kids in hospital.
A second life for your beach inflatables
The Zafiro Bahía team collects more than 300 kilos of plastic inflatables to recycle and convert into items such as aprons or bags.
Zafiro Hotels Joins Charity Run to Raise Funds in the Fight Against Cancer
Zafiro Hotels participated in the "I Desafío en Marcha contra el Cáncer" held yesterday in Palma.
A year of dreams fulfilled and unforgettable memories
Zafiro Hotels now says goodbye to a holiday season full of new projects and numerous awards for its hotels, making our chain the best option to enjoy the Mediterranean.
Zafiro Hotels once again provides support to help improve the lives of children in hospital in the Balearic Islands
Once again this year, Zafiro Hotels has raised 25,000 euros, which will be donated in full to the "Hoteles de Narices" project.
Zafiro Hotels receives the "CaixaBank Hotels & Tourism Award"
The bank names the owners and CEO of Zafiro Hotels, the sisters María and Antonia Plomer, the winners in the “Entrepreneurs with stars” category for their career in the hotel industry and their contribution to improving tourism facilities in the islands.
Zafiro supports medicine with a smile in the Balearic Islands with Sonrisa Médica
Read more
"Mallorca is the best place in the world for triathlon"
One of the biggest stars in Spanish sport, the triathlon champion Alejandro Santamaría, tells us in this interview how he has trained over the last few months and his plans to compete again.
"Alcudia is the ideal destination for training for all three disciplines"
Read more
Kasper Laumann, winner of Zafiro Palma Marathon: "The atmosphere and the route are amazing, just thinking about it makes me excited"
Kasper Laumann, winner of the 2018 edition, prepares for Zafiro Palma Marathon 2019 taking place on October 13 this year.
+34 971 897 008