From early afternoon, volunteers from Cáritas and AdHoc were busy painting faces and arms with the character's typical hands in various colors. Civil Protection prepared identification bracelets for children, while Red Cross personnel patrolled the crowd to provide assistance if needed.
Around 8:00 PM, the Honorary Cascamorras arrived, carrying the flag of the Virgen de la Piedad, well-protected by members of the Multicultural Association, the event's organizing entity. Minutes earlier, "Yolopinto", a large Cascamorras hand, made an appearance, delighting the children and becoming a photographic highlight of the afternoon.
Samaniego lit some emotionally charged ribbons on the flag, received a memento from a Baza family, and posed for countless souvenir photos.
Shortly after 8:30 PM, the procession moved to the Plaza de San Antón, where Miguel, accompanied by his family, launched the three rockets that signal the start of the race. Everyone then ran, shouting traditional messages, experiencing a mix of emotion, a little fear, many laughs, joy, and respect.
The celebration included the first flag oath at the Caños Dorados, concluding at the convent door. Afterwards, Sama faced the Piedad for a few moments of reflection before the farewell, which was only temporary until the following afternoon, when the tradition would repeat.
