Event is broadcast throughout Europe and other parts of the world
Albufeira hosted the 47th edition of the Almond Blossom Cross Country running competition on Sunday, February 25, attracting once again some of the world’s best cross country athletes.
The event, part of the World Athletics Cross Country Tour – Gold Level, took place at the cross country track in Açoteias and attracted 106 teams, 93 clubs from 22 countries, and over 420 athletes across various categories.
Thierry Ndikumwenayo from Spain and Linika Amebaw from Ethiopia, both representing the Playas Castellon team, emerged as the champions of the 2024 edition.
Ndikumwenayo clinched victory in the men’s race, with Oscar Chelimo from Uganda, representing Atletica Noceto, taking the second spot on the podium, followed by Rodrigue Kwizera from Uganda. The best Portuguese athlete in the race was Edson Barros from Sport Lisboa e Benfica, finishing in 13th place.
In the women’s category, Linika Amebaw secured the top spot, followed by Francine Niyomukunzi from Burundi, representing Cus Pro Patria, and Asmarech Anley from Ethiopia, representing Braga. Mariana Machado was the top Portuguese performer, crossing the line in sixth place.
Albufeira Mayor, José Carlos Rolo, has highlighted the event’s importance in the promotion of the municipality abroad.
“This is an asset for the municipality, as the event is broadcast throughout Europe and other parts of the world, providing an excellent promotional opportunity for Albufeira. Furthermore, by taking place during the low season, the event helps reduce seasonality and promotes tourism throughout the year,” said Rolo.
Deputy Mayor, Cristiano Cabrita, added that the event also contributes to the borough’s goal of becoming the European City of Sport in 2026, “adding to the hundreds of events organised throughout the year, which will be presented in March”.
The Almond Blossom Cross Country, named after the beautiful blossoming almond trees which can be spotted throughout the Algarve at this time of year, is organised by the Algarve Athletics Association and the Municipality of Albufeira, with the support of the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth and the Algarve Tourism Region (RTA).
