12th BTT Ride of Messines Firefighters
Event summary
The 12th Passeio BTT Bombeiros de Messines is a popular mountain bike event taking place on February 15, 2026, in São Bartolomeu de Messines, Faro. It offers two routes of 40 km and 60 km, catering to different experience and fitness levels.
This event is open to participants aged 14 and above (with parental authorization for under 18s), welcoming all cycling enthusiasts who wish to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Algarve’s barrocal and mountain areas. The 60 km route is designed for more experienced cyclists, while the 40 km route suits those looking for a more relaxed ride emphasizing leisure and nature.
The race atmosphere is friendly and community-focused, organized by the local volunteer firefighters to support the corporation and promote sport in the region. All participants receive individual classifications by age and gender categories, with trophies awarded after the event’s communal lunch.
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Plan itInformation
Age categories/divisions:
• Male: Sub20, Elites, M30, M40, M50, M60
• Female: Sub20, Elites, M35, M50
Start/finish locations: Avenida João de Deus, in front of the Quartel dos Bombeiros Voluntários de São Bartolomeu de Messines
Start times per category/distance: 09:00 for all participants
Bib pick-up time and location:
• February 14, 15:00–19:00
• February 15, 07:00–08:30
• Location: Quartel dos Bombeiros Voluntários de São Bartolomeu de Messines
Participant limit: 400
Registration deadline: February 9, 2026, 23:59 (local time)
Surface types: Mixed terrain including barrocal and mountain trails
Course format: Point-to-point routes starting and finishing at the same location
Race routes:
• 40 km intermediate difficulty
• 60 km higher difficulty, recommended for experienced cyclists
Timing method: Electronic timing via barcode chip on bib
Toilets and aid station placement: Aid stations with solid and liquid supplies along the routes; toilets available at start/finish
Prizes: Trophies awarded after the lunch for all age and gender categories
Location
get directionsRaces
E-bike 60 km
E-bike 40 km
BTT 60 km
BTT 40 km
Benefits
🎽 Athlete kit: bib number with barcode chip for timing, mandatory helmet usage
🏅 Finisher prize: optional participation gifts depending on registration timing, optional event shirt available for purchase
⏱️ Timing + live results by category available on APEDALAR.PT
🛟 Safety support: paramedic assistance by local volunteer firefighters, security and traffic control by GNR
🛡️ Insurance: covered by event insurance with participant responsible for initial medical treatment costs
🥤 Aid stations: solid and liquid refreshments provided along the routes
🚿 Showers available at Escola Básica João de Deus (men) and Quartel dos Bombeiros Voluntários (women)
🏆 Trophies awarded to winners in all categories after communal lunch
