(by Luciano Fasce)
I am pleased to wish all the Masters in Europe through this particular EMA award for these extraordinary personalities of our sport who remind us every day of the joy of living intensely at all ages
The European Masters Athletics Association (EMA) proudly announces the recipients of the Special Awards 2024, a recognition that celebrates not only athletic excellence but also the indomitable spirit of competition and the passion for sport that knows no age.
These awards are dedicated to athletes who have achieved extraordinary feats, often without direct competition in their age categories, or those who have undertaken remarkable journeys both on and off the track.
Celebrating the Spirit of Longevity and Determination
Emma Mazzenga (W90, Italy)
Emma continues to set benchmarks in Masters Athletics with her unparalleled performances at 90 years of age.
- EMACI Toruń 2024: Triple gold in the 60m, 200m, and 400m.
- WMACS Gothenburg 2024: Gold medal in the 200m.
- World Records: Indoor records in 60m, 200m, and 400m, underscoring her dominance in sprint events.
Angelo Squadrone (M95, Italy)
At 95 years old, Angelo exemplifies resilience and endurance, claiming victory in the road running events.
- WMACS Gothenburg 2024: Gold medal in the 10km road race, proving age is no barrier to excellence.
Konstantinos Chatziemmanouil (M95, Greece)
Konstantinos’ versatility across disciplines and distances at 95 years is nothing short of astonishing.
- EMACI Toruń 2024: Five golds in 60m, 200m, 400m, 800m, and long jump.
- WMACS Gothenburg 2024: Five more golds in 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, and long jump.
- World Records: Indoor records in 60m, 200m, and 400m, alongside outdoor milestones, making him a legend of Masters Athletics.
A Tribute to an Unstoppable Adventurer
Vasile Harjoc (M70, Romania)
Vasile’s story is a testament to the boundless passion for sport and adventure. At 70 years old, his journey transcends the boundaries of competition:
- July 2024: Cycling over 2,500 kilometers from Bucharest to Paris for the Olympic Opening Ceremony.
- Continuing his journey by bike to Gothenburg, where he competed in three events at WMACS 2024.
- Riding to Spain for the World Mountain Running Championships in Canfranc.
- Returning to Bucharest to compete in the WMA Marathon Championships, completing an incredible circuit of sporting and personal triumphs.
The Power of Masters Athletics
These athletes remind us that age is not a limitation but a source of inspiration. Their achievements embody the values of Masters Athletics: passion, perseverance, and purpose. EMA celebrates their dedication to the sport and their ability to inspire countless others around the world.
Let us honor these extraordinary individuals who prove that the love for athletics has no expiration date!