by InTrieste
In a celebration filled with pride and gratitude, the Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia honored its Olympic and Paralympic athletes on Monday night, recognizing their historic achievements at the Paris 2024 Games. The ceremony, held at the Regional Palace in Trieste, brought together regional officials, sports figures, and a community eager to celebrate those who have brought honor to their homeland.
Massimiliano Fedriga, the governor of Friuli Venezia Giulia, hosted the event alongside the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI), hailing the athletes not just for their medals and achievements but also for the personal sacrifices they made in pursuit of excellence. “The results they have achieved are not only a testament to their talent but also to the sacrifices they’ve made,” Fedriga said, addressing the crowd gathered for the Olympic celebration. “Committing to competitive sports means setting aside many other legitimate aspirations.”
Fedriga highlighted the dual role that sport plays in shaping individuals. “Sport, before shaping the athlete, molds the individual by instilling strong and important values, making them a valuable member of the Friuli Venezia Giulia community,” he said. “Our athletes are role models, particularly for our youth.”
The event was not only a celebration of the athletes themselves but also a nod to the broader sports community in the region, which includes coaches, medical staff, and volunteers who support the athletes. Fedriga proudly noted that the region invests heavily in sports infrastructure, a commitment that has made Friuli Venezia Giulia’s facilities among the best in Italy. He also emphasized the importance of supporting local sports organizations, many of which rely on volunteers to thrive.
The gathering included several key regional figures, including Mauro Bordin, president of the regional council, Giorgio Brandolin, head of Friuli Venezia Giulia’s regional branch of CONI, and Fabio Scoccimarro, the regional assessor for environmental defense.
With the Paris 2024 Games now behind them, the athletes of Friuli Venezia Giulia return home not only as competitors but as local heroes, their achievements serving as a symbol of what is possible through dedication, sacrifice, and community support.
Interviews: governor of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Massimiliano Fedriga; Mara Navarria, gold medalist in Women’s Team Epee Fencing; Giada Rossi, gold in women’s single table tennis; Sintayehu Vissa, 16th in 1500m race at the Olympic games.
