Collaboration, preparation, ambition, team. The values that brought Isem Packaging Group closer to the Italian National Pararafting Team in 2024 shined again at a historic event: the first World Cup of the World Rafting Federation, held June 6-8 on the Noce River in the heart of Val di Sole.
As Isem Packaging Group, we are proud to support those who build their successes one paddle stroke at a time, supporting an idea in which we strongly believe, namely that true strength comes from the Group. Sport is a powerful metaphor for collaboration that generates progress.
Mezzana capital of river sports
The event was held at the same time as the European Canoe Championships, turning Mezzana into an international center for live water sports: teams from Japan, Greece, Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands and Germany participated. These were joined by an extraordinary Italian representation, with many crews from clubs all over the peninsula. The event not only had international significance but also awarded important points for the Italian Championship and crowned the new Italian Absolute Champions in the senior slalom category.
Three days of adrenaline-pumping competitions
The program, spread over three days, provided the public and fans with a rich sporting spectacle. Friday was entirely dedicated to the slalom trial in two heats: a technical and selective course, which required great skill in raft driving and teamwork. The level of competitiveness was very high, with a compelling course that thrilled the spectators present along the banks of the Walnut River.
On Saturday, the event continued with the RX qualification and Downriver specialty, confirming once again how Val di Sole represents an ideal setting for this type of competition: a generous and challenging river, capable of exalting the athletic qualities of the crews. Sunday saw the highly anticipated final phase of the RX event, which officially concluded the competitive program, followed by the awards ceremony that celebrated the winners of this first and memorable edition of the World Cup.
The results: determination and team spirit
The races held excitement until the last second. In the Senior Men category, Japan Rafting Team Teikei was able to dominate with authority, confirming itself as a team of the highest technical and athletic level. Among women, the title went to a crew composed of athletes from Rafting Team Verona/Garfagnana Rafting/M&N Movement and Nature: a close-knit team that was able to excel in both the international and national rankings, also winning the overall Italian slalom title. Also Rafting Team Verona shone in the Senior Mix category, imposing itself in a very tight competitive environment. Finally, in the Para Mix category, success was won by a team made up of athletes from M&N Movement and Nature and Rafting Team Verona, who showed great adaptability and team spirit.
- Senior Men: victory for Japan Rafting Team Teikei.
- Senior Women: the title to a mixed crew of Rafting Team Verona, Garfagnana Rafting e M&N Movement and Nature.
- Senior Mix: Rafting Team Verona was again the protagonist.
- Para Mix: success for the team formed by M&N Movement and Nature and Rafting Team Verona, an example of collaboration and fellowship.
A positive balance for the inclusive sport
The outcome of the event was extremely positive: the first World Cup of the World Rafting Federation was extremely well attended, both in terms of numbers and quality. The many teams involved in the competition underscored the increasingly global dimension of the sport.
Isem Packaging Group’s support for the future of sport
For our Group, supporting these extraordinary teams means helping to build a future that is more equitable, accessible and full of opportunities for all.
We thank the Italian Rafting Federation for their trust and tireless work in promoting sport as a tool for inclusion. We will continue to grow together, with enthusiasm and responsibility, toward new goals.
