Alaia Martin Etxebeste has made history, winning the Gipuzkoa Bertsolaris Championship on December 14, 2024, becoming only the second woman to ever don the coveted txapela. The event took place at the Donostia Arena (Illumbe) and featured eight talented bertsolaris, with all tickets sold out, reflecting the high interest and support for this traditional Basque art.
Martin's victory came after years of perseverance; she had previously reached the finals three times, even finishing as runner-up in 2015. This year, her well-prepared performance culminated with her scoring 1,099.5 points, significantly outpacing her nearest competitor, Beñat Gaztelumendi, who amassed 1,054.5 points.
The final showdown began at 5:00 PM, showcasing not just Martin's skills but also the competitive spirit of her fellow bertsolaris. Oihana Iguaran secured third place with 637 points, followed closely by Ane Labaka with 626 points. Other finalists included Aner Peritz, Nerea Elustondo, Andoni Rekondo, and Eneritz Artetxe, who finished with scores from 617 to 578.5 points respectively.
Peritz, notable for being one of the promising young talents, clinched the award for the best bertsolari under 25 years old, highlighting the event's nurturing of younger voices within the bertsolaritza tradition. His poignant performances earlier this year about bullying and the trials of identity caught the attention of many, showcasing the emotional depth and complexity of the art form.
There were eight participants and, as has become custom, they delivered their verses across multiple rounds, including head-to-head matchups. The competition format included various styles, such as double performances and individual acts, allowing each bertsolari to exhibit their uniqueness and creativity.
During the awards ceremony, Arantzazu Loidi, the first woman to win this championship, presented Martin with the txapela, symbolizing her hard-earned victory and place within this historic tradition. Martin expressed her deep gratitude and joy during her first post-win interview with EITB, where she shared, "I felt very cherished and grateful to everyone who supported me throughout this competition. I can't wait to share this moment with my family and give my children big hugs!"
Martin's last verse of the night reflected her thoughts on friendship and community connection: "Bihurtu ditzagun lagunak /bizitzaren tenplu / badakitenak zer nori nola / eta non galdetu / entzuten gaituztenak / nahiz ta pixkat logaletu / ta etxe bihurtzen dutenak / edozein ez leku / mendeko hitza bilakatu / den hontan mendeku / disolba dezagun eskuina / ta auzoa ezkertu / egon gaitezen lagunekin / hauskor ta inprefektu / elkarrengandik gertu / elkarrentzat gertu."
The competition attracted considerable interest, reflecting the resurgence of interest in regional culture and language. Many bertsozale (bertso fans) filled the Illunbe, eager to support their favorites and immerse themselves in the rich traditions of bertsolaritza.
Martin's substantial victory is seen as pivotal not just for her, but for the representation of women within the bertsolaritza scene. Her triumph signifies breaking barriers and inspires other women who aspire to participate and excel in this traditionally male-dominated space.
The audience's enthusiastic response throughout the event was palpable, with many moments of laughter, celebration, and community spirit marking the occasion. The warmth and support from fellow competitors and fans alike demonstrated the commitment to fostering this cultural art form.
The road to the championship was undoubtedly challenging for Martin, made only more intense by the high standards set by the bertsolaritza community. After years of persistence, her dedication has clearly paid off, as she joins the ranks of past champions, each of whom has contributed to the resurgence and evolution of this beloved Basque tradition.
Reflecting on her hard work and commitment, Martin has set examples for future generations, showcasing how passion and dedication can lead to meaningful achievements. It is not simply about the trophy but also the connections made and the messages conveyed through her verses.
Going forward, Alaia Martin’s victory will no doubt encourage more participation from women and younger individuals, fostering growth and diversity within the bertsolaritza community. Her influence will be felt long after the applause has faded, and her story will certainly inspire many more to take the stage and share their voices.
With the event now concluded, the spotlight shines brightly on Alaia Martin Etxebeste, not just for her victory, but for signaling the next chapter of the Gipuzkoa Bertsolaris Championship, filled with potential, creativity, and inclusivity.
