Interview: Carlos André Tavares Cruz – President of the Cultural and Recreational Association of Fernão Joanes

“We will have the National Champions in the different classes competing in the National Supercross Championship in Fernão Joanes”

Carlos André Tavares Cruz, President of the Cultural and Recreational Association of Fernão Joanes, is from Fernão Joanes, in the municipality of Guarda . He studied at Afonso de Albuquerque Secondary School and the University of Beira Interior.

In his free time, he enjoys following Youth Associations, playing sports , watching series and spending time with friends.

GUARDA: The Lajes de Fernão Joanes International Cross-Cross Track will once again host the Supercross on August 9th. A source of pride and a challenge for your Association?

Carlos André: Yes, once again we organized a Stage of the National Supercross Championship in Fernão Joanes, where this year instead of opening the championship, we closed it, that is, we will have the National Champions in the different classes competing in Fernão Joanes.

A GUARDA: What distinguishes this event that usually attracts such a large audience?

Carlos André: The difference between this event and the ones we're used to seeing in Fernão Joanes is that it takes place at night, and in addition to the motorcycle show, we also have other types of entertainment for the public at the crossroads.

A GUARDA: Does this type of event also require a lot of logistics in terms of organization?

Carlos André: Although the event is a single day, it requires the same resources as other two- or three-day events. We need to have the various teams organized, including the kitchen, ticket office, marshals, track maintenance, track preparation, medical and timing teams, and we have around 150 volunteers working with us.

GUARD: Was the adaptation and improvement of the track a requirement or a necessity?

Carlos André: Every year it is necessary to make some adjustments to the track, some of which deteriorate from one year to the next, while others need to be improved. Ultimately, it is something that is both necessary and required.

THE GUARD: Can we say that the track offers all the requirements for any type of motocross event?

Carlos André: The track meets all the requirements for racing, and we have made some improvements every year. However, in addition to the track, the cross-country track itself must also meet the requirements so that both the drivers and the visiting public have good conditions to settle in and enjoy the show in the best possible way.

THE GUARD: If you want to watch, where and how can you purchase tickets?

Carlos André: As usual, our ticket offices will open at 3 p.m. on the day of the race, August 9th. You can purchase tickets there for the races, which begin at 5 p.m.

A GUARDA: Are there any dining options available for those who arrive early at the Crossódromo das Lages?

Carlos André: Yes, as usual we will have food stalls.

GUARDA: Is this a good initiative to promote the village of Fernão Joanes and Guarda?

Carlos André: This is another activity to promote the village of Fernão Joanes, the city of Guarda, and also the central region , because it is a unique event in our region.

GUARDA: Projects for the future?

Carlos André: For now, we don't have any future plans in the pipeline. Our goal is to maintain the activities we usually organize annually, such as the European Motocross Championship, the National Supercross Championship, the Transhumance Festival, and other events.