This virtual event is organised by The Algarve Oncology Association (AOA), in partnership with the Municipality of Loulé and the Parish of Quarteira.

The objective of this challenge is to get as many people as possible to do physical exercise, whether that be running, climbing stairs, walking, swimming, amongst many others in support of cancer.

“MamaMaratona” aims to bring awareness and prevent cancer, in particular breast cancer (within the framework of Breast Cancer Awareness Month). Their other objectives include promoting a healthy lifestyle by practising physical exercise and to raise funds for this important cause which will help to support cancer patients and their families.”

In this virtual context, there are no fixed and mandatory routes defined by the organisation. Therefore, it will be done according to the modality that each participant and/or group defines for their participation and could even be from the comfort of your own home. The event’s programme will include several activities, among them the face-to-face format of the initiative, with days scheduled for this purpose (in an organised way and according to the recommendations of the DGS)

On 10 October, the Algarve Athletics Association (AAALG) will take part in the MM 21 Program, which includes the Mini Marathon (10 kms) and Half Marathon (21 kms), with a solidarity component. AOA and its partners also set a 7 kms route for a run to be held on the 24 October in Quarteira (depending on DGS measures and what they allow at that time), which will be soon made available on the event's website.

In addition to raising cancer awareness, they are also highlighting breast cancer (under the international movement "October Rose" which focuses on Breast Cancer prevention). The 21st edition of “MamaMaratona” also aims to raise awareness of the importance of having a healthy lifestyle, the benefits of exercising and healthy eating, as well as, raising crucial funds for the cause and supporting cancer patients and their family members.

Registration to show your support, opened on the 1 September and you can register online up until the 30 October on their official website www.mamamaratona.com. You can also register in designated places, in respective of opening hours, including at the AOQ SEDE and Forum Algarve’s Information desk. Similarly, you can register at Quarteira’s Parish and on the 7 October, you can register at Aqua Shopping in Portimão at the information desk, which is open from 10:30am to 1pm and re-opens at 2pm until 4:30pm.

Donations are really important in aiding this cause, even as little as one euro, would be a huge help. If you would like to support the cause further you can buy a Solidarity Kit (which includes a bag / backpack, t-shirt and promotional items) from previous editions of the event and with a donation value to choose from.

Those who sign up for “Mamamarathon 21” can also participate in the "Explore your most creative side of MM 21" competition with prizes ready to be won. In order to participate, you will need to post a photo as evidence of your support of MM 21 and to show your support on your Instagram and/or Facebook page, not forgetting to tag @AOAlgarve on Facebook or @aoalgarve_oficial on Instagram as well as including the hashtags #MM21 and #Unidosporumacausa.

The 21 photographs considered most original will be awarded prizes (for more information about the competition you can also consult the rules on www.mamamaratona.com). For more information about the MamaMarathon 21 event and for any clarification on participating please do not hesitate to email mama.maratona@aoa.pt or call 289 807 531.