Players and officials of East Algarve Walking Football celebrated their third birthday in Olhão last week with bubbly and cake. Following a strenuous workout in hot conditions at the José Arcanjo Stadium, the players toasted the club’s success that has spawned further groups in Tavira, Lagos and Vilamoura.
Over the past three years, sessions have been held every Thursday with over 300 senior players – some are in their late 70s – enjoying the new sport. Despite the name, the sport is no walk in the park. A game as mental as it is physical, stifling the urge to run is an early challenge, whereas passes must be made with accuracy to have any chance of success.
On September 29, players and their families will descend on the Estádio da Luz, Lisbon for a Walking Football Festival with Benfica fans.
www.walkingfootballalgarve.com
Photo: Walking footballers celebrate with bubbly and cakes!
