The biography of José Manuel Constantino, the late president of the Portuguese Olympic Committee, who passed away in office last August, is a testament to the power of sports in shaping a nation’s identity. The book, titled “Thinking Sports, Thinking Portugal,” was unveiled on Thursday in Carnaxide, and it’s a tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the world of sports. Vítor Serpa, a veteran journalist who spent three decades at the helm of A BOLA, presented the biography, which he wrote in just three and a half months. Serpa’s goal was to capture the essence of a unique and restless individual who left an indelible mark on Portuguese sports.
José Manuel Constantino’s life was inextricably linked to sports, from his early days as a university student in the 1970s to his tenure as president of the Portuguese Olympic Committee, a position he held for the last 11 years of his life. The auditorium in Carnaxide was packed for the book launch, with notable attendees including Laurentino Dias and Fernando Gomes, the two candidates vying to succeed Constantino as president of the Olympic Committee. The election is slated to take place on March 19, and the presence of these two leaders added a sense of significance to the event.
The ceremony was kicked off by Artur Lopes, the current president of the Portuguese Olympic Committee, who was followed by speeches from Pedro Dias, the Secretary of State for Sports, and Edite Estrela, the chair of the parliamentary committee on Culture, Communication, Youth, and Sports. Vítor Serpa, the author, reflected on the challenges of writing a biography in such a short span, noting that “it was a tremendous challenge to condense a life into a book, especially when we know that a life is so much more than what we see in public.” Serpa credited his journalistic expertise with helping him identify the most essential aspects of Constantino’s life to include in the book.
A Life Dedicated to Sports
José Manuel Constantino’s passion for sports was evident throughout his life, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of athletes and sports enthusiasts. The book launch was also attended by Eduardo Marçal Grilo, a former minister, who presented the biography. As the audience listened to the speeches and reflections on Constantino’s life, it was clear that his impact on Portuguese sports would be felt for years to come. The biography is a testament to the power of sports to shape not just individuals, but entire nations, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the stories and experiences of those who have dedicated their lives to this world.
A Lasting Legacy
The event was a celebration of José Manuel Constantino’s life and legacy, and it marked an important milestone in the preservation of his story. As the world of sports continues to evolve, it’s essential to remember the individuals who have helped shape its history. The biography of José Manuel Constantino is a vital part of this effort, and it will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration for anyone who reads it. With its unique blend of sports history, personal anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes insights, the book is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of sports and its power to transform lives and nations.
