A Century of Campania Athletics: Celebrating History and Future Champions
Naples, Italy – February 27, 2026 – A vibrant celebration of athletic achievement unfolded at the Circolo Canottieri Napoli, marking the launch of “100+anni di storia e statistiche dell’atletica in Campania” (100+ Years of History and Statistics of Athletics in Campania). The event, attended by over 200 people, honored the rich legacy of athletics in the Campania region and looked ahead to future successes.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
The book, penned by Rino Manzo and Fausto Narducci, meticulously documents the evolution of athletics in Campania from the late 19th century to 2025. It features over 5,000 athletes and a detailed statistical appendix, making it an invaluable resource for historians, athletes, and fans alike. Published by LeVarie, with Marco Lobasso as the editor, the volume was prefaced by Stefano Mei, president of the Italian Athletics Federation (FIDAL).
The presentation wasn’t just about the book; it was a tribute to the athletes who have shaped the region’s sporting landscape. Gilda Jannaccone, an Olympic athlete from the 1960 Rome Games, was honored as a guest of honor, with a torch relay recreating a moment from her Olympic experience.
A Gathering of Champions
The event drew a distinguished crowd, including Maria Guida, European marathon champion from 2002; Fiorella Zabatta, the Regional Councilor for Sport; Bruno Fabozzi, President of FIDAL Campania; Sergio Roncelli, President of the CONI Campania; and Paola Del Giudice, Extraordinary Commissioner of the Cus Napoli. Maurizio Marino coordinated the event, ensuring a smooth and engaging program.
Numerous past and present champions were in attendance, including Tonino Andreozzi, Lorenzo Brigante, Teodorico Caporaso, Alfonso Di Guida, Arturo Di Mezza, Anna Maria Ferraro, Antonio Fogliano, Mario Longo, Marco Mazza, Maria Grazia Orsani, and Roberto Ricciardi.
Recognizing 2025’s Standout Performers
Alongside the book launch, FIDAL Campania presented awards recognizing outstanding achievements in the 2025 season. Highlights included Valentina Gemetto’s Italian championship in the 10km road race, Daniele Orlando’s victories in the 60m and 100m junior championships, and Mario Longo’s world master record in the SM60 100m.
Other awardees included Antonio Di Palma, Alessandra Falco, Pierpaolo Pio Bovenzi, Francesco Baia, Nicolo’ Izzo, Simone Esposito, Adesanya Queensly Abisola, Giuseppe Capasso, Alice Barile, Ana Julia Salerno, Raffaele Ranuccio, Antonia Franza, and Eghosa Favour. Team awards went to Enterprise Sport & Service (Italian track champions), Caivano Runners (second in the national cross-country championships), and Running Club Napoli.
The Future of Athletics in Campania
The event underscored a commitment to preserving the history of athletics in Campania whereas fostering a new generation of champions. The detailed record provided by the book will serve as a valuable resource for coaches, athletes, and researchers for years to come.
Did you know?
Mario Longo, a master athlete, set a world record in the 100m for the SM60 age group in 2025, demonstrating that athletic excellence knows no age limit.
FAQ
- Who wrote “100+anni di storia e statistiche dell’atletica in Campania”? Rino Manzo and Fausto Narducci.
- Where was the book launch event held? At the Circolo Canottieri Napoli.
- Who was the guest of honor at the event? Gilda Jannaccone, an Olympic athlete from the 1960 Rome Games.
- What types of awards were presented at the event? Awards were given for Italian championships and outstanding performances in the 2025 season.
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