Distance today = 47.54 km; Total distance = 15,587.54 km; Location = Torres Novas – 39 28.742′ N, 08 32.378′ W; Start time = 0926, Finish time = 1656

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/266610271

In terms of the weather, this was one of the worst days of the world run so far. It was miserable, with cold rain coming down for much of the day. However, the last half hour saw the sun come out, as I ran into the delightful and ancient town of Torres Novas.

During the morning, I was constantly passing runners who were warming up, yet they were in the middle of nowhere on country roads. I eventually found out what was happening when a police car came by, escorting racers carrying batons. It turns out, there was a long relay race, with many teams competing. Lots of spectators along the road commented that I was running the wrong way.

I reached a town where Carmel had stopped and located a street stall that was cooking Portuguese-style chicken – you can’t get more authentic than that. We were going to buy some, until the cook showed us the list of orders. We were going to have to wait an hour!!!! It must have been good.

It was great to get into town and warm up. As I mentioned, the town is great, the hotel is great, and the room has a spa and exceptional internet reception. What more can a weary runner want?

It really is a pleasure to run through these towns, with narrow cobblestone streets, houses that are hundreds of years old, and a castle perched on the high point, overlooking the town. That’s the panorama that greeted me on finishing this afternoon.

My thighs are still sore, and may be for a couple of days yet. Other than that, I’m feeling pretty good, but I hope the weather improves tomorrow. The forecast says it will.