Rovigo played a part in the journey of the Paralympic flame this week, as it passed through the city on its way to Verona for the opening ceremony of the Games. The flame’s arrival, a tradition dating back to the first Paralympic Games in Sweden in 1976, was met with enthusiasm from local officials and schoolchildren.
The flame began its passage through Rovigo at Viale Tre Martiri, eventually reaching Corso del Popolo and Piazza Matteotti. Entertainment was provided by Delta Radio, featuring musical performances by PentiumDj – Mattia Mantoan, starting at 8:30 AM. The event drew a significant presence from local authorities, underscoring the importance placed on the Paralympic movement within the community.
“This is a fundamental moment that highlights the importance of the Paralympics,” stated Rovigo Mayor Valeria Cittadin. “It’s not an event to be considered ‘lesser’ in any way, but rather an example for life for all of us.” She was joined by Enrico Ferrarese, President of the Province; Senator Bartolomeo Amidei; Regional Councilor Cristiano Corazzari; Claudia Casarotti, Vice President of the Venice Rovigo Chamber of Commerce; Lucio Taschin, Provincial Delegate of CONI (Italian National Olympic Committee); Valeria Siciliano, Head of the INAIL Rovigo office; Nicoletta Carnevale and Giulia Callegari, national and regional delegates of the Italian Paralympic and Special Olympic Federation; and Lorenza Baccaro, Provincial Delegate of the Italian Paralympic Committee (CIP).
Deputy Mayor and Sports Assessor Andrea Bimbatti added his gratitude, stating, “Today, our city has once again united around sport, which unites, symbolizes peace, genuine comparison, respect, and inclusion. A heartfelt thanks to all the municipal offices, the local police, and all the law enforcement agencies who together ensured the flawless execution of the transit.”
The flame was escorted through the city by torchbearers, greeted by enthusiastic applause and waving flags from students of the Casalini middle school, the Mattioli elementary school, the Elisabetta Merlin nursery school, and the Giacomo Sichirollo, Pio XII, Mamma Margherita (along Viale della Pace), and Bonifacio (along Viale Tre Martiri) schools. The procession continued to the gardens under the towers, where several athletes shared their experiences.
Michela Dal Bianco and Pierluigi Bonafin, Paralympic athletes and national and world champions in apnea, spoke to the crowd. Damiano Cosimo Carpignano, representing the Itas Mutua Baseball Softball Club Rovigo, Team BxC, and Emanuela Veronese, from Rhodigium Basket, a baskin team, similarly offered their perspectives. These testimonials highlighted the dedication and achievement possible through Paralympic sport.
The Paralympic Games represent a powerful demonstration of athletic ability and human spirit. The flame’s passage through Rovigo served as a local celebration of these values, building anticipation for the opening ceremony in Verona. For those unfamiliar with baskin, it’s a fully inclusive sport designed to allow athletes with and without disabilities to compete on equal terms, further embodying the Paralympic ideals of inclusivity and participation.
The flame’s journey to Verona underscores the growing recognition and importance of the Paralympic movement. The Games themselves offer a platform for athletes to showcase their skills and inspire audiences worldwide. The event in Rovigo was a small but significant step in building that momentum, demonstrating the city’s commitment to inclusivity and the celebration of athletic achievement at all levels.
The Paralympic Games opening ceremony is scheduled to take place in Verona. Further details regarding the event, including schedules and ticketing information, can be found on the official Paralympic Games website. The event promises to be a celebration of athletic excellence and the power of the human spirit.
