East Algarve Walking Footballers feet have hardly touched the ground in recent weeks. Apart from the three weekly sessions in Olhão and Tavira, there has been an Easter dinner, a mini-tournament to help celebrate the anniversary of the founding of Sporting Clube Olhanense in 1912 and a bowls tournament at Pedras Lawn Bowls Club.
Some 50 guests enjoyed a convivial meal at the JJ Restaurant on the EN125 near Moncarapacho and, three days later, put their best foot forward on the immaculate bowling green at Cabanas de Tavira. The event, organised by Mike DJ Bristow, attracted many players and friends who were sampling the sport for the first time.
An enthralling Easter Saturday morning session resulted in the team of Barbara Harper, Peter Walpole, Carole and Steve Maddox taking the top honours.
The SC Olhanense 107th birthday celebrations included a walking football tournament between SC Olhanense Vets, EAWF Olhão and EAWF Tavira for the Henrique Efigénia “Reina” Trophy.
The Olhanense professional players and management team made a surprise visit to wish their older counterparts ‘good luck’. Those present were also delighted to welcome 81-year-old Henrique Evaristo da Efigénia, affectionately known as “Reina”, who on two occasions in the 1960s played for Olhanense against the legendary Eusébio and stopped the great man from scoring!
The Olhanense Vets triumphed for the second year running and received the trophy from “Reina”.
The weekly walking football session at Tavira continues to attract more players. The 40 players were last week joined by popular British comedian and actor Jason Manford who thoroughly enjoyed his morning of physical activity. Although well below the age limit, Jason – an accomplished all round entertainer who has appeared in Coronation Street, Emmerdale and hosted numerous TV comedy shows as well as panel games such as ‘A Question of Sport and Super Saturday’ – was given special dispensation to display his silky skills.
On May 3 and 4, EAWF teams from Olhão, Tavira and São Brás will be competing in the Browns WF Tournament in Vilamoura.
www.walkingfootballalgarve.com
By CHRIS WRIGHT
