The iconic athletics event, one of the region's most anticipated sporting occasions, will host renowned national and international athletes. The competition includes a 21-kilometer race and a 10-kilometer run/walk.
The event was presented at the Paços do Concelho, attended by Pedro Oliveira, Vice-President of the Municipal Council responsible for Sports, and Jorge Teixeira, general director of Runporto. Pedro Oliveira highlighted the race's significance: “The Half Marathon is and will continue to be a commitment of this municipality,” emphasizing its role in tourism attraction and economic impact.
Acknowledgments were extended to Run Porto, an essential partner, sponsors, and emergency and security forces. Jorge Teixeira of Run Porto promised a day of emotion and achievement, stressing the importance of athlete preparation for a smooth event. Hopes are high for a new race record, aiming for times under one hour.
Over 2200 athletes from 28 nationalities have already registered, with approximately 15% being foreign participants. The predominant age group is 18 to 34 years old for both races.
The 21km race will feature elite international athletes, including Kenyans Daniel Tumaka Kosen and Mercy Nelima Simiyu, and Ethiopians Arega Getahun Ayele and Zinash Mulata Waketoli. They will compete against Portuguese athletes Nuno Costa, Daniel Pinheiro, Rui Oliveira, and Vanessa Carvalho.
The 10km race, which is gaining popularity, will include Portuguese athletes Mariana Regalo, Marta Martins, Luís Mendes, João Azevedo, Gonçalo Rodrigues, Francisco Barros, Tomás Campos, and Ana Pereira.
The event is jointly organized by the Municipality of Vila Nova de Famalicão and Run Porto, with Q8 as the main sponsor and support from Hermotor. The course remains unchanged, with the finish line located at the CITEVE parking lot. Registrations are open on the official RunPorto website until the limit of 3000 participants is reached.
