Article by Yousuke Yagami from Japan. He participated in the World Masters Orienteering Championships 2022 in Italy.
Are you from an Asian country and participated in one of the recent international events in Europe? We’d love to hear from you! Send your report to raphael.mak@metrunner.com.
I joined the 2nd race of “After WMOC” in Puglia, Italy.
This was my first orienteering in Italy, and also in Europe in these two years for me.
As it was so impressive for me, I’ll share about my experience here.
About me
Before my report, I’d like to write about myself.
I’m from Japan, 38 years old now, and started orienteering in university about 20 years ago. After 15 years working in Japan, I moved to Ireland to study English in last April. I’ve been to Europe or other countries for orienteering like “O-Ringen”, “Fin5”, “Swiss O Week” and “Thailand Orienteering Championships” during my orienteering career.
Race in Alberobello
Alberobello is a town locates in Puglia, Italy. It’s famous for its beautiful town view with “trullis”, small house built with stone-roof and white wall. The district of old town is registered as one of the world heritage sites by UNECSO. Furthermore, it was one of the best places where I’ve wanted to visit. So, I decided to join this event soon when I found the announce.
A sprint race was held in the middle of Alberobello, surrounded by many trullis. We enjoyed an orienteering through the small paths, cozy parks, and many tourists. Personally, the route of narrow path surrounded by trullis was one of the most exciting moments. Although I lost quite a lot time at the end of race, I completely enjoyed that.
Banquet
A small banquet was held after the race, at the villa located in outskirts. Not only Italian wine and beer, many kinds of South-Italian portion were also served like a mozzarella cheese and panzerotti. Every kind of foods might be the “must” ones for the tourists came to Puglia. Although I was the only participants form Asia, I also enjoyed talking with European orienteering lovers.
As I am still in my holidays now, I’m going to join “O-Ringen”, “EOC2022 (volunteer staff)”, and “Hungarian cup”. Please check my next reports!
