The record-holder in Portalegre, with five car victories to his name, Filipe Campos looks back on the beginnings of his four-wheel racing career and recalls what it was like to win the event that remains his favourite off-road race to this day.
Having shared a car with Carlos Leitão in the 1987 edition, Campos reflects on how different things were back then: “We shared the driving, which is what we did for several years. It was a spectacular experience. Looking back now at the cars we raced, it makes me feel nostalgic. And we wonder how those cars were even able to withstand so much!” he concludes.
Comparing the different levels of preparation between then and now, Campos recalls the more relaxed approach to racing in those days: “The cars weren’t prepared to the standard they are today, and we had nothing; we either managed everything or managed nothing at all. In other words, we just made the best of what we had. We tried to spare the car a little, but we were always pushing flat out,” he remembers.
Speaking about the significance of the Baja de Portalegre, Campos explains why it holds such a special place in his heart: “As well as being the first off-road race held in Portugal, it is also a legendary event and, for me, one of the most important on the Portuguese calendar. There is a whole world of spectators supporting every driver, regardless of who they are. And that is what makes it a true celebration of off-road racing,” he concludes.
Reflecting on the course itself, Campos emphasises just how demanding the event can be: “It is a difficult race, with several types of terrain, where you have to manage things very carefully. I was lucky on many occasions and had the support of my team, which is why I have five victories. But I think my record will be beaten soon, and when that happens, I’ll come back to defend my position,” he says with a youthful smile.