Legends of the green: the lasting legacy of Christopher Stilwell and João Silva in Algarve golf

BY JOÃO DOS REIS

These two famous golfers, who have already passed away, Christopher Stilwell on the left and João Silva, right, made history in Algarve golf, the first with one of the most powerful and influential golf administrators in the Algarve, whom much the region was owed for its tireless dynamism in promoting and organising major national and international tournaments. These events took place in the area administered.

João Silva was another great figure who supported golf in the Algarve. We know these two great gentlemen well, the first as the administrator of several companies connected to golf and the latter as a good friend and player with whom I have shared many rounds on virtually every field in the Algarve and a few times in the rest of the country.

Whenever João and I attended a tournament, he always gave me a good Cuban cigar, the famous Cohiba, which I loved smoking. Also, I like my traditional pipe, which I never separated myself from. Like a present, one day João stopped smoking Cohiba cigars, which allowed me to get the ones he was no longer smoking. It was the old days of a lot of friendship and companionship.

Remember is to live…

Source: João Dos Reis Facebook account.

Kiko Luna and Sergio de Céspedes Lead the way in FPG’s Coach Training Program

The Federação Portuguesa de Golfe (FPG) proudly celebrates 75 years hosting a series of special events, including an exclusive Coach Training Program.This year, the Federação Portuguesa de Golfe (FPG) proudly celebrates 75 years of dedication to the sport, marking a legacy of excellence and growth in golf throughout Portugal. In honour of this significant milestone, the FPG is hosting a series of special events, including an exclusive Coach Training Program, held on September 2nd and 3rd at the Centro Nacional de Formação de Golfe in Jamor.

The two-day Coach Training Program, guided by renowned coaches Kiko Luna and Sergio De Céspedes (Real Federación Española de Golf), focused on refining essential skills such as swing technique and short-game strategy. With their vast international experience, Luna and De Céspedes brought a wealth of knowledge to the sessions, which were designed to combine theoretical instruction with practical application, ensuring a comprehensive and effective learning experience. This innovative approach fostered a rich exchange of ideas between the coaches and the National Team players, further enhancing the development of golf talent in Portugal.

Experience at the Coach Training Program

With over three decades of coaching experience, Kiko Luna has been instrumental in shaping the careers of top Spanish golfers like Jon Rahm and Azahara Muñoz. His expertise and De Céspedes’ extensive background as a former professional player and esteemed coach made this training program an exceptional opportunity for all participants.

The Centro Nacional de Formação de Golfe, located at the Centro Desportivo Nacional do Jamor, is owned by the state and managed by the Federação Portuguesa de Golfe. Opened in September 2013, this nine-hole course enhances public accessibility and supports the training of new and elite golfers. The FPG had already established a golf academy and driving range, and the course further integrates these facilities into the broader community.

As the FPG continues to elevate the sport in our country with events like the Coach Training Program, Tee Times Golf Agency invites golfers worldwide to experience the best Portuguese golf. Whether you want to improve your skills or enjoy a relaxing holiday, our exclusive golf packages for unique Portugal golf holidays offer the perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and world-class instruction.

Photos by: Federação Portuguesa de Golfe.

Lisbon Sports Club lost an icon: Fernando Fragoso passed away


Fernando Fragoso, also known as “The President of the 18 Holes,” passed away, leaving an exceptional legacy at the historic Lisbon Sports Club. His relentless efforts in expanding and building the new four holes and various other improvements to the golf course marked a significant moment in the club’s history and profoundly impacted the wider golf community. A true visionary, he was also a pioneer of Pitch and putt in Portugal, among other challenges.

The Tee Times Golf Agency team profoundly mourns his loss and offers heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who are part of the Lisbon Sports Club.