The prize was awarded to lecturer Colado on 4 October during the IV International Congress on Aquatic Activities. It was organised by the Faculty of Sports Organisation of the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León and AIDEA and held in Monterrey (Mexico).

'Referentes AIDEA' is an Ibero-American award, which honours researchers in the field of aquatic activities. Its aim is to distinguish and reward those people who have made a notable contribution to the progress and scientific improvement of aquatic activities in different environments.

Juan Carlos Colado Sánchez is a full university professor of Physical and Sports Education in the Universitat de València. Director of both, the Research Group on Prevention and Health in Physical Exercise and Sport (PHES), and of the Sport and Health Research Unit. He also coordinates the Physical Activity and Health Laboratory and the Health and Quality of Life Teaching Unit. He was awarded an special doctoral award and received the national award for sporting merit in the field of research. He has published more than 100 articles and has participated in more than 250 conferences. Colado Sánchez is a scientific and technical advisor for leading international companies in the physical-sports and health field. His scientific contribution is ranked among the 15 best in Spain in the area of "Sports Sciences" and world number 5 in the area of "Aquatic Exercise for Health". In addition, he has also been a national and international lecturer for 25 years in undergraduate, postgraduate and professional specialisation. His area of expertise is fitness, especially in terms of the improvement of quality of life and special needs populations.