Rio Grande do Norte
A natural paradise for divers and sailors from all over the world, Rio Grande do Norte is one of the country's largest pole of ecotourism. The unspoiled landscapes of dunes, salt domes, coconut palms and warm water beaches are enhanced by the local climate, characterised by dry winds, high temperatures and constant sunshine. The state’s economy is notable for its production of salt and large reserves of oil and natural gas. With strong influences of indigenous, black and Portuguese people, the Potiguar people – what the natives of the state are called – withstood invasions by the French and the Dutch in the 17th century.
The strength of Rio Grande do Norte state is its great geographical diversity. In addition to its beaches, the state has areas of the Atlantic Rainforest and vegetation found in the caatinga and sertão (backlands). The Sertão do Seridó is a barren region known for its hiking trails and primitive inscriptions. The southern region of the state offers beaches and cliffs, as well as marine life observation of dolphins and sea turtles. Pipa beach is one of the highlights of this region.
The state capital, Natal, has already hosted important international sporting events, such as the 1st Artistic Gymnastics Brazilian Meeting in 2011, and the Artistic Gymnastics BRA X CAN X GBR International Tournament, in 2007. Natal is the hometown of Brazil’s all time highest basketball scorer: Oscar Schmidt.
Currently, the sporting tradition of Rio Grande do Norte state is represented by athletes such as Bruno Fratus, Swimming, who stood out at the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara. Bruno won the gold medal in the 4x100m freestyle and 4x100m medley relay and the silver medal in the 50m freestyle events.
