Italian Archery Mourns Loss of Longtime Leader Aurora Paina
The Italian archery community is in mourning following the passing of Aurora Paina, a dedicated administrator who devoted much of her life to the growth of the sport. Paina, born in Senna Lodigiana in 1944, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of service and passion for archery. News of her death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the Italian archery federation.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Archery Development
Paina’s contributions spanned decades, encompassing roles at both the regional and national levels. From 2000, she served as the Provincial Delegate for FITARCO (Federazione Italiana Tiro con l’Arco) in Milan, and for many years managed the secretariat of the Lombardy Regional Committee, presided over by her husband, Francesco Mapelli. She was a central figure in the Lombardy region, organizing numerous courses, training camps, and summer programs aimed at fostering the next generation of archers.
Her influence extended nationally as well. Paina was elected to the Federal Council in 2004, a position she held until 2016. During her three terms, she distinguished herself as the technical delegate for Federal Events, skillfully combining competence and managerial ability with a genuine warmth and humanity. She built personal relationships with countless coaches, parents, and young archers, nurturing their development with care and offering invaluable life advice. One notable example is her early mentorship of Lucilla Boari, a current member of the Italian national team, when Boari was just 10 years old.
Recognition for Years of Service
Paina’s dedication wasn’t just impactful; it was formally recognized. In 2016, then-Federal President Mario Scarzella, alongside the Secretary-General of CONI (Comitato Olimpico Nazionale Italiano), Roberto Fabbricini, presented her with a commemorative plate in front of the newly elected FITARCO Council. This gesture acknowledged her significant function and the time she dedicated to the growth of Italian archery. The presentation highlighted the esteem in which she was held within the sport’s governing bodies.
A Personal Touch Beyond the Field
Beyond her tireless work within the archery world, Paina found solace and joy in her personal life. She cherished spending time at her family home in Senna Lodigiana, tending to her garden and flowers. This demonstrated a well-rounded life dedicated to both professional commitment and personal passions.
Condolences from the Archery Federation
Current FITARCO President Vittorio Polidori, Secretary-General Roberto Musiani, the Federal Council, the Lombardy Regional Committee, and all FITARCO employees have expressed their deepest condolences to her husband, Francesco Mapelli, her son Stefano, and all her family members. Polidori, who was elected president in February 2025, succeeding Mario Scarzella after a closely contested election, acknowledged the significant loss to the archery community.
The funeral was held on Monday, March 9th, at 2:45 PM at the Church of S. Redentore, located at Via Palestrina 5 in Milan. The service provided an opportunity for the archery community to pay their respects to a woman who dedicated so much of her life to the sport.
Aurora Paina’s passing represents a significant loss for Italian archery. Her commitment, passion, and dedication will be deeply missed, but her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of archers and administrators. Her impact on the sport, particularly in the Lombardy region, will be remembered for years to arrive.
The Italian archery federation will undoubtedly feel the void left by Paina’s passing, but her contributions will continue to shape the sport’s future. The focus now shifts to honoring her memory and continuing the work she so passionately championed.
