World Championship Kicks Off in Garibaldi

Garibaldi, Brazil — The world bocce family was officially welcomed with a vibrant, atmosphere-filled opening ceremony marking the grand start of the World Bocce Championships.

Delegations representing 22 countries took to the stage to warm applause from a large, enthusiastic crowd. As each team was introduced, spectators cheered to acknowledge the athletes who had travelled from across all continents to compete. The ceremony featured a captivating display of traditional folk dance, bringing colourful moments, energetic rhythms, and pure passion to the main stage, setting a joyous tone for the days ahead.

Official Welcoming Speeches

Valmir Danieli, President of the Confederação Brasileira de Zerbin, Petanca e Rafa (CBZPR), expressed deep gratitude and pride in hosting the global sport community. He noted that welcoming the world bocce family to Brazil is a monumental opportunity for the country, extending sincere thanks to the CBI Board, local organizers, dedicated referees, volunteers, officials, and generous sponsors who made the event possible.

Sérgio Chesini, Mayor of Garibaldi, echoed these warm sentiments. He expressed his appreciation to both the CBI and the Brazilian Federation for entrusting Garibaldi with such a prestigious international gathering. Mayor Chesini highlighted that hosting athletes from all over the world makes Garibaldi the vibrant center of global bocce in the coming days, expressing immense honor and wishing all participants an unforgettable stay in the region.

Concluding the official remarks, Dr Mutlu Türkmen, President of the CBI, took the stage to express his appreciation for the exceptional organisational standards achieved by the hosts, thanking Mayor Chesini, President Danieli, and every volunteer involved. Dr. Türkmen paid special tribute to the referees and match directors, recognizing them as the heart and soul of bocce. In his address, he emphasized that beyond the intense competition on the courts, the true spirit of the championships lies in fair play, building lifelong friendships, and honoring the tight-knit unity of the world bocce family.

Oaths and Exchange of Gratitude

Following the speeches, the traditional Referee and Athlete Oaths were solemnly recited by head referees and player representatives in both English and Portuguese, reaffirming a commitment to integrity, respect, and sportsmanship throughout the championship.

The formal proceedings wrapped up with a presentation of mutual gifts exchanged between Mayor Sérgio Chesini and CBI President Dr. Mutlu Türkmen as a symbol of unity and appreciation.

80th Anniversary Celebrations

To cap off an extraordinary evening, teams, delegates, and officials gathered at the local bocce club for a festive barbecue reception, celebrating the sport and honoring the 80th anniversary of the local bocce club in Garibaldi. Friends old and new shared memorable moments ahead of what promises to be a thrilling world championship tournament.