In memory of Pedro, he completed the race twice and in recent years was a key figure in the organization of the Spirit of '78 Triathlon.
Doing something completely different?If training for and completing a full-distance triathlon is already an enormous challenge, doing it without the technology we have today makes it an entirely different kind of feat.
Eight years ago, the challenge was launched — and in this ninth edition of the Spirit of 78 Triathlon, nearly half of the athletes took it on. Along the banks of the Douro River, they paraded proudly on their classic bicycles — many showing the patina of time and a hint of rust — dressed in retro swim briefs, crop tops, and accessories from the era, doing their best to stay true to the gear used in 1978. And the cherry on top? The men sported magnificent mustaches that would make any 70s movie star jealous.
It’s Saturday, October 11th. Before dawn, the first athletes begin arriving at the Museu da Imprensa, in Porto, Portugal. The tension is visible on their faces — a mix of nerves and excitement. For the newcomers, it’s the perfect time to listen to the veterans, those who have returned to the Douro year after year.
As the first rays of sunlight pierce the horizon, the athletes line up on the ramp leading to the water, ready for another day of endurance and camaraderie. The surface of the river is calm, disturbed only by the gentle ripples around the buoys — once again, the Douro looks ready to help.
After the final briefing from Mr. Joaquim — a familiar figure since the very first edition — the race begins, and the athletes slip into the water, gliding downstream with the current. The swim course runs with the flow of the river, and this year, close to the turning of the tide. Conditions like these make every swimmer feel like Michael Phelps. Yet, for those who don’t choose the best line, it’s easy to add an extra 500 meters to the usual 3,800.
The first to climb the exit stairs are Hugo Mota and David Caldeirão, who quickly jump on their classic bikes, dressed in full vintage style. The remaining athletes emerge from the river one after another, all completing the first — and for many, the toughest — segment successfully.
The cycling route follows the winding road that hugs the Douro, heading inland, with the river’s stunning scenery as a constant backdrop. The segment consists of a 30 km loop, completed six times. The circuit allows for regular refueling and, just as importantly, frequent crossings between athletes. Each time they meet, the trees echo with the familiar cry — “Bora, Bigodes!” (“Go, Mustaches!”) — often more energizing than any energy bar.
David Caldeirão led the race until the start of the final lap, closely chased by Márcio Carvalho, who maintained a steady distance throughout. At the beginning of that last lap, the tables turned — Márcio took the lead and never let it go.
For those enjoying the sunny day along the riverside road, it was a glimpse of what triathlons looked like in the 1970s: athletes in swim briefs and vintage bikes, scattered across the course, some leading, some lagging, but all sharing the same spirit.
The run took place on a 7 km loop, with a central aid station offering support every 3.5 km. One stretch wound through a shaded boardwalk under trees; the other was a wider, sunnier path — always following the river’s edge.
This year, the sun and heat proved to be the greatest adversaries, and the conditions took their toll on finishing times. Márcio Carvalho held on to his lead, increasing the gap to David Caldeirão, who was eventually overtaken near the end by Paulo Marques.
In the women’s race, Patty Watanabi seized the lead from the start and never looked back, with Sherry Gu unable to close the gap. Patty went on to claim her second Spirit of 78 Triathlon title.
It’s worth noting that this year Patty embraced the spirit of the event more than ever — completing the race in a swimsuit, without the comfort of cycling padding. She became only the second woman ever to do so, after Margarida Reis in the second edition. She’s now left a promise hanging in the air: to line up next year with a classic bike.
As tradition dictates, everyone waited for the last finisher before crowning the champions. This year, instead of the traditional podiums for the top three men and women, only the overall champions were crowned — Márcio Carvalho as the first man and Patty Watanabi as the first woman. A full podium was reserved for those competing in the Ladies & Gentlemen Club. David Caldeirão claimed the title, followed by newcomer Pedro Jacinto and long-time veteran Tiago Amaral.
The Ladies & Gentlemen Club is reserved for athletes who truly embody the 70s spirit: racing in swim briefs, crop tops, classic steel bikes, and, of course, mustaches. Of the 45 athletes who started this year, 20 took on the challenge, and 14 finished, earning the coveted certificate as official members. Competing over this distance with steel-framed bikes — heavy, non-aerodynamic, and with few gears — adds an extra layer of challenge to an already demanding race.
Once again, the true spirit of triathlon came alive along the Douro. Throughout the day, a vibrant crowd gathered to cheer, support, and celebrate the athletes as they passed. At the heart of the event, a true festival took shape — with music, food, drinks, and plenty of laughter — bringing together volunteers, supporters, friends, and the public to strengthen the growing family that the Spirit of 78 Triathlon has become.
Next year promises to be a special one: the tenth edition of this event that has left its mark on all who take part. Judging by the enthusiasm of those who have already crossed the finish line — many of whom plan to return in full vintage gear — there will be very few spots available for first-timers.
The Spirit of 78 Triathlon will return in early October, with registrations opening on January 1st. As always, participation is limited to 60 athletes: returning competitors have priority, while the remaining spots will be drawn among new applicants.
