Alice BELLANDI has continued her remarkable Golden Tour with recent stops in Castel Maggiore (Bologna) and Montecchio Maggiore (Vicenza). Despite slightly lower participation, around 400 on Saturday and 300 on Sunday, the energy and focus of the coaches and athletes were palpable. Reflecting on these events, Alice shared her thoughts about the past two appearances and the deeper impact her tour is having on the judo communities.
Bologna, November 30: Revitalising Judo in Hard-Hit Regions
Emilia-Romagna and Veneto, like my home region of Lombardy, were hit hard by the pandemic, and the challenges for sports communities are still felt today. But seeing the resilience and dedication of the athletes and coaches here has been truly inspiring, and it was humbling to be there. It is a reminder of the strength and passion that keeps judo alive.
Montecchio Maggiore, December 1: A Personal Connection to Her Roots
I truly believe both locations felt my Olympic gold medal a bit more deeply than other regions, could also be because of the close distance to my home in Lombardy. There is a shared pride that connects us and that is what drives me to show these athletes the real Alice, not just the one they see on TV. The goal is always to let them know I am here for them, to inspire and offer something to believe in. It has been a while since these regions have had an Olympic judo medallist and I hope my presence helps to foster trust and encourages them to keep pushing forward.
Alice’s Golden Tour is a heartfelt mission to inspire, connect, and reignite the passion for judo across Italy. As she continues her journey, the ripple effects of her efforts will undoubtedly help nurture a stronger and more unified judo community. Looking ahead, the Golden Tour has two destinations remaining: Naples on December 14 and Brescia on December 15. These final stops promise to bring even more excitement and inspiration as Alice continues to share her journey with athletes and fans. Naples, a city known for its vibrant passion for sports, will provide a unique atmosphere, while Brescia, located in her home region of Lombardy, will be a particularly special conclusion to the tour.
Images: FIJLKAM
Author: Szandra Szogedi