São Silvestre Vila Nova de Cerveira

The shorter distance is listed as a caminhada, a walk rather than a timed race. It suits families, beginners and anyone who wants to take part without racing the clock.

Midwinter in northern Portugal is usually cool and often wet, with temperatures typically in single figures to low teens and a real chance of rain off the Minho. Bring a light waterproof layer and something warm for before and after the race, and expect the ground to be damp underfoot.

Bag storage depends on what the organiser lays on for the day. Check the event page before you travel and, if nothing is confirmed, plan to arrive in your kit with as little baggage as possible.

Yes. The course runs through the streets of the town, so spectators can follow the action on foot from the pavement and gather near the finish. Town centre cafes and the riverside give them somewhere to wait between laps.

There is no published weather policy for this event. Portuguese São Silvestre races normally go ahead in rain, and only severe conditions would force a change, which the organiser would announce on their site and social channels.