Vale de Janelas Retain the National Club Championship – Seniors

Vale de Janelas have done it again. The West Coast club successfully defended their title at the National Club Championship – Seniors, edging out Estoril by two strokes, in what became a tighter contest than most would have predicted.

O Clube de golfe de Vale de Janelas voltou a sagrar-se campeao no Campeonato Nacional de Clubes

The two-day event was played across two formats and two venues. Round one, held at Santo Estêvão Golfe, used Individual Strokeplay — with each club counting its three best scores. Vale de Janelas, arriving as reigning champions, built a commanding nine-stroke lead over nearest rivals Miramar and ACP Golfe.

Day two brought Foursomes into the equation, and with it, a change in tempo. Estoril refused to go quietly, posting an impressive 147 to Vale de Janelas’ 156. In the end, the arithmetic still favoured the champions. Vale de Janelas finished on 385 (+20); Estoril, to their credit, made them work for it, finishing on 387 (+22). Quinta do Peru took third place on 393 (+28).

It is the fourth time Vale de Janelas have lifted this title since 2022 — with only 2024, when Belas Clube de Campo took the honours — interrupting what has otherwise been a rather comfortable reign. The winning team comprised Gonçalo Mota Carmo, Jeffrey Valade, Ken Cooper and John Williams.

Estoril’s challenge was mounted by Miguel Franco de Sousa, Manuel Agrellos Jr., Sofia Paiva and José Maria Cazal-Ribeiro.

O Clube de golfe de Vale de Janelas voltou a sagrar-se campeao no Campeonato Nacional de Clubes2

Salgado and Pereira Triumph at AQUAPOR Circuit Event in Quinta do Peru

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The latest chapter in Portugal golf unfolded at Quinta do Peru Golf & Country Club, where the 2nd Tournament of the Circuito AQUAPOR 2026 concluded with strong performances and tightly contested finishes.

Francisca Salgado, representing Vale de Janelas Golf Course, confirmed her lead from the opening round to secure victory in the women’s competition. After posting an impressive 76 (+4) on day one, she entered the final round with a narrow advantage. Despite a more challenging second round of 80 (+8), Salgado maintained her composure and finished with a total score that proved just enough to hold onto first place.

The final standings remained close until the end. Luciana Reis, from Arquitectos Golf Club, delivered the best round of the day with 74 (+2), finishing second overall with a total of 157 (+13). Francisca Ferreira da Costa, representing Oporto Golf Club, was also in contention after the first round but could not close the gap in the decisive stage.

In the men’s competition, João Miguel Pereira from Aroeira Golf Resort controlled the tournament with confidence. Starting the final round with a two stroke lead, he managed the pressure effectively and matched the course par to secure victory. His total of 139 (-5) placed him ahead of Diogo Rocha, who finished second with 141 (-3) after also returning a level par round.

The event once again highlighted the consistency and growing depth within Portugal golf, with players demonstrating both technical skill and competitive maturity.

Tournaments like the AQUAPOR Circuit continue to strengthen the national calendar while also attracting attention from golfers looking to combine competition with leisure. For many international visitors, following events like this can add an extra dimension to a golf holiday in Portugal, offering the chance to experience the country’s courses not only as a player, but also as a spectator of its evolving competitive scene.

The next stop on the circuit is scheduled for May 16 and 17 at the historic Vidago Palace Golf Course, where players will once again compete in one of Portugal’s most distinctive settings.

The Remarkable History of Golf in the Algarve

The history of golf in the Algarve true begining occurred in 1966, when architect Sir Henry Cotton opened the first traditional grass course, The Penina.Golf’s journey from Scotland to the sun-drenched fairways of the Algarve is a remarkable tale of cultural expansion, innovation, and timeless appeal. Though the game began with feather-stuffed balls and windswept dunes, it found fertile ground in Portugal during the early 20th century, capturing the hearts of players with its elegance and challenge.

The Algarve’s introduction to golf dates back to the 1920s, inspired by the sport’s growing popularity across the British Empire. The region’s first course, between Portimão and Praia da Rocha, was rudimentary—its greens made from sand and oil due to a lack of freshwater. However, the true transformation occurred in 1966, when legendary golfer and architect Sir Henry Cotton opened the first traditional grass course, The Penina, now called the Sir Henry Championship Course. Spanning 360 acres and featuring tree-lined fairways, lakes, and a five-star resort, the Penina set the standard for what Algarve golf would become.

Sir Henry’s vision ignited a golf revolution. Architects from around the world flocked to the region, drawn by its mild climate and stunning landscapes. The Algarve quickly became a top destination for golf tourism, especially in the cooler months. The Portuguese Open cemented the area’s reputation, attracting elite players and international attention.

Tee Times and the History of Golf in the Algarve

For over 30 years, Tee Times Golf Agency has played a pivotal role in this story. Based in Portugal, we have become synonymous with excellence in golf tourism, offering curated packages that combine world-class golf with the region’s rich culture, cuisine, and hospitality. From the iconic Penina to the finest courses across Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, and Monte Rei, Tee Times connects golf lovers with the best Portugal has to offer.

Whether you’re chasing birdies under blue skies or soaking in the rich history of golf in the Algarve, the region delivers a truly unforgettable experience. With Tee Times by your side for the best golf holidays, your next break is more than a trip—it’s part of a legacy.