Participants had the opportunity to meet the Mayor of Figueira Da Foz today Monday 17 June. Over 45 participants congregated by the Marina gates where they were led by Rally Control and Miguel Armaral, the Commodore of the Marina in Figueira to the historic Town Hall for a brief welcome ceremony made by the Mayor of Figueira Da Foz Joao Ataide. Paul Tetlow, on behalf of ARC Portugal presented the Mayor with a plaque in appreciation of their continuing support, which was then reciprocated as Paul received a beautiful shield on behalf of World Cruising Club for continuing to visit Figueira each year.
After the formalities, the group took the scenic walk to the Quinta Das Olaiasa house Museum where a glass of Port was served as participants could amble the stunning building and take some photographs. It was a fantastic setting and we are happy to Mayor stayed for some time allowing the participants to personally thank him.
From there the crews were free to explore the town and enjoy some lunch in one of the many restaurants. Some people followed rally control Paul & Kieran into the Creative arts centre where a further short tour was provided by our helpful guide Pedro. On display were some fantastic local photography exhibitions which really made an impression, as well as other local art works.
Due to poor weather forecast on Tuesday 18 June, the start from Figueira has been delayed until Wednesday morning. This decision has been a group decision on liaison with the skippers, and Port authorities. The fleet will then head to Peniche on Wednesday for a night before setting sail again to Oeiras at the entrance of the Tagus River and the countries capital Lisbon.