[1] After hosting the 1992 Portuguese Racewalking Championships,[2] the meeting began in its April schedule in 1993 and switched to a men's 20 km/women's 10 km format.

[1] Since 2004, the competition has been part of the IAAF World Race Walking Challenge circuit – the top level meeting series for international racewalking.

[4] Several athletes have won the race multiple times: Portugal's Susana Feitor is an eight-time winner while Latvian Aigars Fadejevs is the most successful man with four wins.

The race usually attracts walkers from Europe, China and Central America – the three regions that produce the most top level athletes.

[1] The course route is on a loop in the town centre near the Praça da República (Republic Square) and alongside Parque 25 de Abril.