The news had been in the air for some time but confirmation from the international federation arrived yesterday. Sardinia will host the first stage of the 2023 Open Water World Cup on 20 and 21 May in Golfo Aranci. A stage for which the entire Sardinian swimming movement can rejoice, confirming an important growth path carried out by clubs, athletes and technicians as repeatedly underlined by the president of the regional committee Danilo Russu.
Russu after two editions of the Coppa Len in Alghero the World Cup arrives in Sardinia. How did we get to this goal?
« The Aquatic Team Freedom company, which had already organized the Len Cup on the island together with the regional committee, presented its candidacy for the World Cup which was approved by Fina after the approval of the national Fin. We are very happy, this is a historic moment for Sardinian swimming ».
Why did the choice fall on Golfo Aranci?
« It is an important strategic point, close to Olbia airport, and many hotels are also close to the sea which is a great convenience for athletes. It will be fun, the strongest cross-country skiers in the world are expected».
What races will be held?
« Definitely the 10 km, probably also the 4x1250 relay and an opening race reserved for Sardinian athletes. There's still a long way to go, it's all in progress. In the meantime, we begin to prepare everything in detail ».
This stage of the World Cup is the confirmation of the great attention paid to the open water sector in Sardinia.
« Of course, it's a sector that is giving us a lot of satisfaction. We have excellent logistical conditions, we enjoy an ideal climate for training and there are guys like Marcello Guidi and Fabio Dalu who have carved out a leading role for themselves».
Guidi and Dalu could fight for a place in the national team right at the World Cup.
« Seeing them compete with the national team at ''home'' would be an enormous satisfaction as well as a nice reward for two youngsters who have made so many sacrifices to express themselves at the highest levels».
