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Atletica Cogne marks its 80-year anniversary: a "life school" for 3000 residents of Val d'Aosta

Pioneering Valley corporation, and among the first fifteen in Italy, championed track and field athletics; fostering a deep connection with sports across multiple generations.

Atletica Cogne marks its 80th anniversary: "A life education institution for 3000 Val d'Aosta...
Atletica Cogne marks its 80th anniversary: "A life education institution for 3000 Val d'Aosta residents"

Atletica Cogne marks its 80-year anniversary: a "life school" for 3000 residents of Val d'Aosta

In the heart of Valle d'Aosta, nestled amidst the majestic Italian Alps, lies the Cogne Athletics Club - a cultural and recreational institution with a rich history and a vibrant present. Founded on September 6, 1945, by the revered figure Antonio Boscariol, who was affectionately known as "the surveyor," the club has been a beacon of athletic excellence for over seven decades.

Antonio Boscariol, a man in love with track and field, was not only the founder of the club but also its authoritative figure for a staggering 60 years. His leadership saw the club rise to prominence, becoming the first athletics society in Valle d'Aosta and among the first 15 in Italy.

Under Boscariol's guidance, the club flourished, and today, it boasts approximately 200 annual members. The club's board, a testament to gender equality, consists of three women and four men. The youth activity in the club starts at the tender age of 6 and extends up to 70 years old, providing a lifelong opportunity for athletes to hone their skills.

One such athlete, Matilde Abelli from Aosta, has made a name for herself in the Italian athletics circuit. She has won silver in the 300 meters at the Italian Cadets and repeated her success in the Allievi, where she finished third and won bronze in the 400 meters.

The club's coaches, who numbered more in the 90s, work together as a cohesive unit, rather than as individuals. This collaborative approach has nurtured numerous talented athletes, including Eddy Ottoz, a bronze medalist in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, who started training at the club in 1960. Other notable alumni include Felice Fontan, Enrico "Iki" Rollandin, Marco Acerbi, Fabio Grange, Delio Donzel, Jean Dondeynaz, Laurent and Patrick Ottoz, Walter Brocard, Attilio Jacquemet, Luigi Genero, Orlando Scarpari, and Emilio Bertona.

After Boscariol's tenure ended in 2005, the presidency was passed on to Domenico "Ico" Chatrian from 2006 to 2009, followed by Mauro Serradura from 2010 to 2013. In 2014, Leo Béard took over the reins, serving until 2021. As of now, Sergio Ghezzi holds the position, continuing Boscariol's legacy.

The Cogne club is more than just an athletics society; it's a social complex that includes eight sports disciplines. Over the years, it has received numerous accolades, including the Gold Star for Sporting Merit from the National CONI in 1995. The club has also organised international meetings with French teams from Albertville in the 90s, showcasing its commitment to promoting sports on a global scale.

In essence, the Cogne Athletics Club, born from the vision of Antonio Boscariol, continues to stand as a testament to his enduring love for track and field and his commitment to fostering athletic excellence in Valle d'Aosta.

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