Regional Government praises five Madeiran athletes for sports achievements
The Regional Government Council, meeting in plenary on May 21, 2026, approved five resolutions publicly distinguishing Madeiran athletes for their high-level sports performance. The commendations recognize the prestige brought to the Autonomous Region of Madeira in the sports of canoeing, table tennis, and basketball.
Rui Pedro da Rocha Mendes Borges Macedo and Beatriz Fernandes Santos: Commended via Resolution No. 497/2026 for winning the silver medal at the 1st Stage of the 2026 ICF Ocean Racing World Cup (SS2 class, mixed category). The praise extends to the coaches, the Clube Naval do Funchal, and the Madeira Regional Canoeing Association.
Rodrigo Santiago Gomes Vilhena Andrade: Commended via Resolution No. 498/2026 for winning the gold medal at the 3rd Stage of the 2026 WTT Youth Contender Plaja D'Arco Spain (mixed doubles, U15). The recognition includes the Associação Desportiva Galomar and the Madeira Table Tennis Association.
João Mateus Jesus Ornelas: Commended via Resolution No. 499/2026 for the bronze medal at the 1st Stage of the 2026 ICF Ocean Racing World Cup (SS1 class, open senior men's category). The praise includes the coaches, the Associação Náutica de Câmara de Lobos, and the Madeira Regional Canoeing Association.
Maria João Bettencourt Correia: Commended via Resolution No. 500/2026 for winning the 2025/2026 Betclic League in basketball (senior women's), playing for Sport Lisboa e Benfica.
Marcy Gonçalves: Commended via Resolution No. 501/2026 for winning the 2025/2026 Betclic League in basketball (senior women's), playing for Sport Lisboa e Benfica.