GREAT RESULTS WITH RACE WALKERS FROM RIO MAIOR

Four international race walkers born in Rio Maior won medals in the 23th Rio Maior International Race Walking Grand Prix. Vera Santos took the women’s title for a second time, four years after her first triump while Inês Henriques finished third a long way ahead of Spanish duo Maria Jose Poves and Ainhoa Pinedo. Erica De Sena came through to take second place, beating the Brazilian record she set two years ago in Rio Maior.

After passing through the half-way mark, 2005 world bronze medallist Susana Feitor dropped out, followed by national record-holder Ana Cabecinha.

Portugal’s two-time European bronze medallist Joao Vieira, winner in Rio Maior last year, was seeking a second consecutive victory here.

He battled until the final lap, but despite his best efforts could not hold off Brazil’s Caio Bonfim, who came through to win, five seconds ahead of João Vieira.

Vieira’s twin brother Sergio Vieira finished third in 1:24:15.

“I’m very happy with this win,” said Bonfim, the reigning South American champion. “I’ve come to Rio Maior several times for training. It’s a great place for training and I’m trying to convince the Brazilian federation to send their athletes to train in Portugal, specifically at the Rio Maior Sports Centre.”

On Saturday April 5th, the competition took place on the main streets of the city, once again with many athletes and a great public supporting the race walkers.

Throughout the day the World Health Day was held in the City Garden providing sports and leisure activities which had a great public participation.

This event was organized by the Municipality of Rio Maior, the Rio Maior Sports Centre and the Rio Maior Swimming Club, with the support from many other international and national companies.

More information on the official event website in www.gpmarchariomaior.desmor.pt

(From IAAF Website)