Swim Challenge Cascais: a unique opportunity for Spanish triathletes

El Swim Challenge Cascais, swimming in Portugal is a unique opportunity for Spanish triathletes.

On September 23, a new edition of the test will be held with routes from 1 km to 20 km, including kids tests, 200 and 400 m... choose your distance.

The cities of Lisbon, Oeiras y Cascais, venues for the races, offer an ideal setting for training at sea and enjoying family activities.

Whether you are preparing a test for the end of the season, you want to recognize the IRONMAN Portugal route or you would like to do a weekend of tourism and sports, this competition may be what you are looking for.

Test History

The Swim Challenge Cascais has its roots in the journey of Lord Byron, a feat that marked the history of swimming.

In 1906, the crossing of the Tagus to Cascais attracted the attention of King D. Carlos, who was waiting for the swimmers at the finish line.

Carlos was a leading figure in the promotion and development of open water swimming in Portugal. His influence was such that he helped establish open water swimming as a respected and appreciated sport in Portugal.

Later, the generation of Jose Freitas y Batista Pereira He undertook the journey alone, without a competitive purpose, but leaving a legacy that is celebrated today with the Swim Challenge Cascais.

José Freitas, nicknamed the "Gibraltar dolphin“, is an iconic figure in the history of Portuguese swimming.

His nickname comes from his remarkable swimming ability, which distinguished him as one of the best swimmers of his time.

Freitas is especially known for his exploits in open water swimming, where he demonstrated exceptional stamina and skill, leading to numerous accomplishments and setting several records.

Competition Details

La Swim Challenge Cascais It is the first competition of its kind. This year, 10 km and 5 km tests are presented, in addition to the traditional tests.

Competition also includes a 20 km ultramarathon event, which will link Lisbon and Cascais, becoming the longest event organized in Portugal.

This ultra from Cascais is one of the 4 most important events in the world in its category, Together with the Trans Tahoe, la Traversée du Lac St-Jean and Capri-Napoli gulf marathon.

DISTANCE	DESCRIPTION	DATE
20 km	Lisbon-Cascais ultramarathon race	23th September 2023
10 km	Oeiras-Cascais water marathon	23th September 2023
5 km	Open water test (Olympic distance)	24th September 2023
3.8 km	open water test	24th September 2023
1.9 km	open water test	24th September 2023
1 km	open water test	24th September 2023
400m	test for children	24th September 2023
200m	test for children	24th September 2023

1 km test

The 1 km test will begin and end at Pescadores beach. The finish line arch will be located on the beach.

This is a great distance to start your open water swimming experience.

1.9 km test

The 1.9 km test starts at Praia dos Pescadores beach in Cascais, looking east.

The last turning buoy will be near Monte Estoril. The swimmers then return to Cascais to complete the challenge.

The circuit will be the same as the IROMAN 70.3 Cascais.

3.8 km test

The 3.8 km test will have a turn and guide buoys throughout the route.

It starts at Pescadores beach in Cascais looking east and the last turning buoy to return will be near Monte Estoril. The swimmers then return to Cascais to complete the challenge.

The circuit will be the same as the IRONMAN Portugal.

5 km test

The 5 km test will have two laps and guide buoys throughout the route. It starts in front of Pescadores beach in Cascais looking east and the last turning buoy to return will be near Tamariz beach in Estoril.

The swimmers then return to Cascais to complete the first lap and start the second.

The finish line is located in front of the Pescadores beach, parallel to the coast.

This test is for those who want to take another step in their training by starting in ultra-distance swimming.

Symbolism of the Departure Places

The cities where the Swim Challenge Cascais starts are loaded with symbolism and represent a journey through Portuguese history and culture.

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal and a city with a rich history of maritime discoveries.

This city is known for its role in the Age of Discovery, when Portuguese explorers embarked on voyages that led them to discover new lands.

The next stop is Oeiras, a city that is home to two Fortes da costa, fortresses that once protected the coast from invaders.

These forts are a reminder of the strategic importance of the Portuguese coast and the challenges faced by those who ventured out to sea.

Finally, the competition ends in the city of Cascais, a place that was once the preferred vacation destination of European royalty.

Cascais is known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect place to recover after the competition.

A perfect opportunity for the Spanish.

The Swim Challenge Cascais is more than a competition, it is an opportunity for Spanish triathletes to test themselves for a longer test, unite sport and tourism to train in a unique environment such as the Portuguese coast.

From Madrid, the capital of Spain, the trip in car takes about six hours, allowing athletes and their families to arrive on time for the competition and enjoy a weekend on the beautiful Portuguese coast.

For those who prefer to avoid the road, flying to Cascais is a fast option and convenient.

The nearest airport is Lisbon Airport, which is well connected to the main Spanish cities and offers regular flights to Madrid, Barcelona, ​​Seville, Valencia and Bilbao, among others.

From the airport, Cascais is only 30 minutes away by car or taxi.

In addition, Portugal has an efficient and well-developed train network. From Lisbon, you can take a direct train to Cascais which takes approximately 40 minutes.

The Cascais train station is conveniently located in the center of the city, within walking distance of many hotels and the competition venue.

Do not miss the opportunity to participate or follow this unique competition.

More information on its official page https://swim-challenge.com/