Last year I had the opportunity to take part in 1st edition of the National Open Water Circuit race in São Miguel, AzoresThe three of us from the Swim4fun Club — Mayra, Joana, and I — went there and came back. completely in love with the experience.
The race took place in Água de Pauand from the very first moment, we realized it would be a special stage of the circuit. The scenery is simply breathtaking. Swimming there, surrounded by the island’s green mountains and the deep blue of the Atlantic, is something hard to put into words… it’s something you truly have to experience.
The water was crystal clear, super clean, and about 22ºC, and with that the usage of the neoprene suit was optional — a fantastic feeling for anyone who loves swimming freely in the sea.
But it wasn’t just the race that won us over. The the atmosphere around the event was very welcomingAt the end, there was a very well-organized post-race gathering with food and drinks for the athletes — a true moment of camaraderie among swimmers. It was one of those race finishes where no one is in a hurry to leave.
Of course, as we were already in São Miguel, we also took the opportunity to explore a bit of the island. We visited some of its most iconic spots, saw absolutely surreal landscapes, and quickly understood why so many people fall in love with the Azores.
This year in 2026the race is back in the calendar and will be the 1st one of CCNA 2026, still in Água de Pau, com distância de 3500 m.
If you’re thinking about taking part in the circuit this year, this is definitely a race that’s truly worth experiencingIt’s not just a competition — it’s a complete experience of swimming, nature, and community.
Who knows, maybe this year there will be even more swimmers from Clube Swim4fun experiencing this adventure together?
Bibiana Farias