Warm Weather Training (WWT)

Distance boys on an infield cool down

Each year all OUAC athletes are invited to attend a warm weather training camp abroad. We typically spend 7-10 days in the Algarve, Portugal during the Easter holidays. A number of our coaches come with us to put us through our paces and ensure that we get the most out of our time there. Importantly, WWT is always a lot of fun and a chance to bond as a team. In recent years we have had up to 50 athletes attending and Portugal is always one of the highlights of our year. The trip is very reasonably priced and is often subsidised by the Achilles Club.

The trip provides athletes with an opportunity to train using top quality facilities and hopefully in excellent weather. It is a crucial part of our preparation for the summer season. We have been staying in Monte Gordo for a number of years now and it is fun training alongside international athletes and staying in a hotel just two minutes from the beach. Standard facilities include an 8 lane, well-maintained track, Olympic standard field event facilities, a fully-equipped gym and swimming pools - with physios and masseurs nearby.

The trip is important for fostering team spirit too. During our time away many of the all-important foundations are laid in generating a strong team spirit for the summer ahead. The trip provides athletes with the opportunity to get to know each other better, build up the camaraderie within the club and enjoy a relaxing break before Trinity term. You can’t underestimate the advantage of having a strong team spirit - a wise man once said, “It is in Portugal where the Varsity Match is won or lost.”

The trip is organised by our two Vice-Captains so do contact them for further information. 

OUAC 400 Squad on their day off

Runs on the beach