In October 2025, Embridge’s Tiago Bruno will line up at the start of the Baja Portalegre 500 – one of Portugal’s most iconic off-road motorsports events. For Tiago, it marks the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition he first dreamed of as a child growing up in Portalegre. But this challenge isn’t just about crossing the finish line; it’s also about raising awareness and support for Leo’s Angels, a memorial fund dedicated to transforming epilepsy care.
With mere weeks to go till the race, Tiago’s preparations have stepped up a gear. After nearly two years of building his strength and stamina, he has returned to riding and is focused on developing the technical skills required for the Baja Portalegre 500. Every session on his new motorbike is a step closer to tackling the demanding course in Portalegre.
Tiago’s long-term commitment to off-road training
Preparation for a race like the Baja Portalegre doesn’t happen overnight. For almost two years, Tiago has been building his fitness through daily running and strength training, laying the groundwork for his return to off-road riding. Recently that training took a major step forward when he finally secured his motorbike: a KTM 250 EXC-F Six Days Enduro, his dream model. Since then, Tiago has been focused on regaining his confidence on two wheels.
“After almost 20 years without riding, it felt strange at first… but also incredible.”
– Tiago Bruno, Integration Architect at Embridge Consulting
Determined not to repeat the injury that ended his first attempts at riding, Tiago has now enrolled at the Alentejo Off-Road School. Based in Montemor-o-Novo in Portugal, the Alentejo Off-Road School specialises in teaching riders’ safe off-road techniques. Its courses focus on handling challenging terrain, including trails, mud, sand, and rocks, helping riders develop the skills and confidence needed for demanding off-road conditions. There, Tiago has been learning and refining essential techniques, from body positioning to cornering, braking, and riding safely across challenging terrain.
For the past nine months, Tiago’s training has become a regular commitment. Every week, he dedicates time to structured off-road sessions while continuing to build endurance and resilience through his fitness routine. It’s this pragmatic, focused approach that’s preparing him for the unique test of Portalegre.
Baja Portalegre 500 has challenged riders for decades
First held in 1987, the Baja Portalegre 500 has grown into one of Europe’s most celebrated off-road races. The event forms part of the FIA TT World Cup and attracts riders from across the world. Its routes cut through the Alto Alentejo region, combining fast straights with demanding technical sections that test both skill and endurance.
For Tiago, the event holds special significance. Born and raised in Portalegre, he grew up watching the race with friends, dreaming of one day taking part. While obstacles – from family restrictions to health setbacks – kept him from competing in his youth, the goal never faded. This October, after years of preparation, Tiago will finally have his chance.
“I don’t want to be the first to arrive, I just want to arrive in one piece!”
– Tiago Bruno, Integration Architect at Embridge Consulting
Racing to raise awareness for epilepsy and Leo’s Angels
Alongside it being his personal dream, Tiago has chosen to dedicate his race to Leo’s Angels, the memorial fund created by Embridge CEO Emma O’Brien in honour of her son, Leo.
Leo’s Angels exists to tackle the urgent challenges of epilepsy care. By investing in technology and innovation, the fund is working to create more responsive healthcare systems, empower clinicians with better data, and provide stronger support for families affected by epilepsy. At Embridge, we’re proud to sponsor Tiago’s race entry and to stand behind his efforts to raise awareness for Leo’s Angels. His commitment to preparation and his dedication to supporting a cause that means so much to our business reflect the values we strive to uphold every day.
As the countdown to the Baja Portalegre 500 continues, Tiago’s story is a reminder of how personal ambition can be harnessed for collective impact – driving awareness, inspiring others, and supporting meaningful change.
Join Tiago in supporting Leo’s Angels
Tiago is asking for your support as he takes on the Baja Portalegre 500. By backing his race and donating to Leo’s Angels, you’ll be contributing to vital initiatives that improve epilepsy care and offer families the support they need.
With the Baja Portalegre 500 just weeks away, we’re excited to see how Tiago’s training and preparation come together on race day. His dedication and focus over the past months has been inspiring, and we’re looking forward to following his progress as he takes on this challenging course while supporting Leo’s Angels.
Follow Embridge Consulting on LinkedIn to keep up with Tiago’s training journey and fundraising efforts in the lead-up to race day.