Seven (7) rowers and three (3) coaches from the Member Federations of Cyprus, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia benefitted from World Rowing Development Programme (WRDP) support at the 38th Memorial Paolo d’Aloja training camp and International Regatta held from 18th-24th March 2024. The week-long training camp was once again graciously hosted by the Italian Rowing Federation (FIC) at the picturesque Lake Piediluco in Terni, Italy.
The WRDP provided a package of support that included full board accommodation and access to world-class facilities at the Olympic Rowing Preparation Centre at Lake Piediluco. This year’s international event attracted participants from 28 nations, predominantly from Europe. Spearheaded by World Rowing Head of Coaching Gianni Postiglione, the training camp was supported with technical guidance from WR Expert Fayçal Soula and Tunisian coach Chokri Ben Miled.
A significant boost came from the boat builder Filippi, which generously supplied participants with their top-tier competition boats, ensuring optimal conditions for training and competition
In a discussion with Coach Gianni, Giuseppe Abbagnale, President of the FIC, acknowledged the partnership between the FIC and World Rowing. This collaboration, epitomized by the development camp, has evolved into a cherished tradition, garnering widespread acclaim for its role in fostering the positive image of developmental rowing.
Among the highlights of the event were the notable performances of the athletes – Ilyas Chafik from Morocco in the U19M1x category and Khadija Krimi from Tunisia in the LW1x category. Their podium finishes captured the essence of determination and skill that defined the championship.
As the world of rowing continues to embrace diversity and talent from emerging nations, events like these provide opportunities for demonstrating excellence, paving the way for a bright future in the sport. The camaraderie and spirit of collaboration among athletes and coaches from diverse backgrounds exemplified the unifying power of rowing.
(PHOTOS COURTESY OF FIC & F. SOULA)