Fighting the Flab & Keeping Fit
Walking Football was introduced to the Algarve 4 years ago and has become a runaway success with groups now walking their way to fitness in Vilamoura, Lagos, Tavira and Olhão, where it all started.
Chris Wright, president of East Algarve Walking Football, said, “we started with a dozen sceptical elderly gentlemen in September 2014 and since then hundreds have enjoyed the fun, fitness and friendship of this novel sport.”
Homemade Eccles cakes, Bakewell tart and rich fruit cake were eagerly devoured and washed down with glasses of champagne as over forty players and officials celebrate the club’s fourth anniversary following a vigorous workout at the José Arcanjo Stadium.
Players and officials celebrate the club’s fourth anniversary
Next weekend (5th/6th October) four over 50s and two over 60s teams will be competing in the Browns WF Tournament in Vilamoura.
The following week a group from Keynsham (Bristol) will be flying over to enjoy the Olhão experience, as will a group from Denmark comprising of players who have overcome prostrate cancer.
A week later the Benfica Foundation will visit the José Arcanjo Stadium, Olhão. Last year EAWF were given the VIP treatment when they visited the famous Estádio da Luz (Lisbon) to play in the shadow of the world famous stadium.
In mid-November sixteen teams from the UK, Spain, north and central Portugal as well as the Algarve will compete in the Olhão International WF Tournament at the well appointed Olhão Municipal Stadium.
It is not all about the walking football, where running is penalised by a free-kick, but a large part of the sport’s success has been the social interaction and camaraderie. Regular social events attract in excess of a hundred guests and a Curry Night at the Hairy Lemon Poolside Bar, Cabanas, Tavira, on the 11th October is nearing capacity. Spin-off groups have evolved with a cycling section soon being followed by a string of horse riders. For the more sedate, a Cribbage Group will start in November!
Come along and give it a try or just join in for the social fun.
Hi – I am player manager of Arsenal’s WF team – we would be interested in coming out for a playing visit- and also reciprocal at the Emirates Hub