The Regional Secretary for Education and Culture stressed in Angra do Heroísmo that the "achievements" of Azorean sport are due to the development of physical activity and sports.
 
Avelino Meneses spoke at the presentation of the 18th Azorean Sports Gala. On the occasion, he stated that this activity "quality of life" while preparing "bodies and minds for the challenges of competition."
 
"The Azorean Sports Gala is a prime example of the celebration of our physical activity in competition," stressed the government official.
 
In this context, the Regional Secretary recalled the participation of Azorean athletes in the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
 
Avelino Meneses expressed his belief that "the future will be even more promising," given the predictable generalisation of sports practice resulting from the growing participation of accredited athletes; the average participation of female athletes is higher the national average.
 
Returning as a single ceremony after six years, the 18th Azorean Sports Gala will take place in Angra do Heroísmo on May 14 as part of the national Olympic Day celebrations.
 
In this edition of the Gala, which celebrates the achievements of the 2017-2018 sports season, 85 award winners from the islands of Santa Maria, S. Miguel, Terceira, S. Jorge, Pico and Faial will be honoured at the event.