Messenger11th Kings' Relay
Event summary
The Estafeta dos Reis 2026 is a team relay running race taking place on January 10, 2026, at the former Posto de Comando do Movimento das Forças Armadas, located in the Regimento de Engenharia nº 1 da Pontinha, Lisbon. This unique location is historically significant for its role in the military operations of April 25, 1974.
The race consists of teams of three runners competing on a closed circuit with a 2.5 km perimeter. Teams can be male, female, or mixed, requiring at least one member of a different gender. The event is open to all runners over 18 years old and features three age categories based on the combined ages of team members.
Besides the competitive spirit, the race offers a festive atmosphere culminating in a convivial moment with the best Bolo-rei of Lisbon. The event encourages solidarity and team spirit, making it a special occasion for both athletes and spectators.
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Age categories/divisions:
• Category 1: total team age less than 104 years
• Category 2: total team age 105 to 134 years
• Category 3: total team age more than 135 years
Start/finish locations: Parada Militar, Regimento de Engenharia nº 1 da Pontinha, Lisbon
Start times per category/distance: 10:00 for all teams
Bib pick-up time and location:
• Friday, January 9, 10:00 to 20:00 at Xistarca facilities
• Sunday, January 10, between 8:30 and 9:30 at the race start location (with a fee of €3.00 or €3.50 if not purchased online)
Registration deadline: Up to 5 days before the event
Surface types: Asphalt circuit inside the military installations
Course format: Closed circuit loop of 2.5 km per lap
Race routes: 2.5 km loop inside the military base
Timing method: Chip timing (one chip per athlete)
Toilets and aid station placement: Public water points available; participants must bring their own bottles; toilets at start/finish zone
Prizes: Trophies for top three teams in each category, finisher medal, and Bolo-rei for all finishers
Location
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Road Running 3 athletes
Benefits
🎽 Athlete kit: bib, chip (one per athlete), and possible sponsor offers
🏅 Finisher prize: medal and traditional Bolo-rei
⏱️ Timing with chip for each athlete
🛟 Safety support: partnership with GNR ensuring security
🛡️ Insurance: personal accident insurance included for registered participants
🥤 Aid stations: water points available; participants must bring their own bottles
📸 Rights for image use granted to organizers for event communication
