19th EDBF Championship in Italy

Dragon Boat «Dnestr» at the 19th EDBF European Club Crew Championships in Ravenna, Italy
In September 2023, the Tiraspol-based Dragon Boat «Dnestr» team achieved a significant milestone by participating in the 19th EDBF European Club Crew Championships (ECCC) in Ravenna, Italy. This prestigious event brought together 82 clubs from 18 countries, showcasing the best of dragon boat racing in Europe. For the newly formed Tiraspol team, this was more than just a competition—it was an opportunity to connect, grow, and leave a mark on the international stage.

An International Stage for Moldovan Dragon Boat Racing
Representing Moldova alongside the Moldovan club «Vulturi,» Dragon Boat «Dnestr» competed in the Premier Mix Small Boat category in 200, 500, and 2000-meter races. With 2,700 athletes competing in over 261 races, the championship was a hub of energy, excitement, and fierce competition. For «Dnestr,» it was their first major international event since their establishment in the summer of 2023 and becoming members of the Moldavian Dragon Boat Federation.

The Tiraspol team’s journey to Ravenna began with rigorous training sessions in Drochia, supported by Moldovan sportsmen. This collaboration between right and left banks of the Dniester River emphasized the role of sports in building bridges and fostering cooperation.

Results and Highlights
Competing in the Premier Mix Small Boat category, «Dragon Dnestr» achieved a commendable 17th place out of 23 teams, a remarkable result for a team that was only a few months old. Their determination and resilience in competing against more experienced teams highlighted their potential and commitment to the sport.

Coach Anatoly Kovalschii, a master of international class sports and a seasoned athlete, praised the team’s performance:
“Our participation in Ravenna was a transformative experience. Competing on such a prestigious stage with teams from across Europe demonstrated the strength and determination of our athletes. This event marked the beginning of our international journey and solidified our dedication to the growth of dragon boat racing in the region.”

Building Connections and Gaining Recognition
The ECCC wasn’t just about racing; it was an opportunity for the Tiraspol team to engage with athletes from across Europe. Thanks to the support of the European Union Confidence Building Measures Programme (EU CBM) implemented by UNDP, Dragon Boat «Dnestr» had the chance to expand their network, exchange techniques, and gain insights from experienced teams.

«The support we received from the EU CBM program was invaluable. It allowed us to reach a new level, foster cooperation with teams from the right bank, and connect with the international dragon boat community,” noted Coach Kovalschii.

A Platform for Future Growth
Dragon Boat «Dnestr» is more than just a team; it’s a symbol of unity, resilience, and the power of sports to transcend boundaries. Their participation in Ravenna has laid the foundation for future international competitions, inspiring the team to aim even higher.

With invitations to future events, including the World Championships in Ravenna and international regattas in Sicily and Canada, the journey for Dragon Boat «Dnestr» is just beginning. As they continue to train and compete, they remain a beacon of hope, demonstrating how sports can bring people together and create lasting connections.

The 19th EDBF European Club Crew Championships in Ravenna was not just a milestone—it was the start of a legacy. For Dragon Boat «Dnestr,» the future holds endless possibilities as they paddle toward new challenges and greater achievements.

European Championship 2023:  https://edbf.org/19th-eccc-ravenna-it-2023

Photos and videos: https://www.instagram.com/edbf_eurodragonboat/

The results of all the races can be found at:  https://edbf.idbfchamps.org/results.php

Dragon Dnestr was participated in 3 Mix Small Boat classes raced in a 200, 500 and 2000 -meter format. From 569 crews – 23 were in premier small boat format.

The result of Dragon Dnestr team was 17-th place from 23 Dragon teams which were competed in  Premier Class Mis Small Boat

 

Contacts

    Tiraspol, 2025

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