Angling for the Top

With its extensive coastline, the Algarve has always been a prime destination for angling. The precariously-positioned fishermen on the cliffs at Cabo de São Vicente offer an insight into the lengths that people will go to for the love of their sport. Fifteen-year-old Lourenço Martins shares this love. Recently, he represented Portugal at the Under-16 Shore Angling World Championships.

Growing up in the small fishing village of Burgau, Lourenço has always been enthusiastic about angling. As a 12-year-old, he was scouted by the ‘Clube Naval’ of Portimão, where he soon became the national champion. Within the year, he was picked by his country as the youngest team member at under-16 level – they subsequently finished fourth at the 2019 World Championships. Whilst juggling his school life, he has continued to make great strides within the sport.

To represent Portugal is obviously a great honour, but the esteem has not come without great effort. To qualify, Lourenço had to finish in the top five anglers in the country via a series of challenges and competitions. His eventual success provided him with re-selection to the national team and in April, he headed off to La Tremblade in France for the 2022 world championships.

Despite battling poor conditions, the youth championships proved to be highly competitive, with the top-three positions changing frequently. Unfortunately, the Portuguese team finished just outside the medal positions in fifth, but it was a valiant effort from the boys and their efforts deserve to be commended.

The under-21 Junior competition proved to be just as exciting, with the young Portuguese team excelling themselves by winning the silver medal. Fellow Club Naval member Miguel Martins was part of the squad that came away as runner up. It capped off a fabulous week for the young anglers.

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