Czech athlete Karolina Jarosova dominated the 2,000m steeplechase race, clocking an impressive 6 minutes and 23.58 seconds to claim gold. Andrea Nygaard of Norway secured silver, while Sweden’s Majken Maria Larsson took bronze. Jarosova’s remarkable achievement solidified her as the star of the event, leaving a lasting mark of excellence on the track.
French athlete Laura Montauban and Croatian athlete Mia Wild had spectators on the edge of their seats with their spectacular race in the women’s 100m hurdles final. Crossing the finish line at the same time, they shared the top of the podium and set a new EYOF record.
Romanian swimmer Robert Andrei Badea achieved a golden triumph in the men’s 400m medley, showcasing his prowess in the pool with a commanding performance. His race tactics and powerful strokes propelled him to victory, earning him the admiration of fans and competitors alike. Badea now has a place in EYOF history as his performance in the final set a new EYOF record.
In 2023, Maribor, Slovenia hosted the Summer European Youth Olympic Festival, attracting around 2,500 athletes from 48 nations, competing in various sports categories. What stood out in this edition was the focus on technological innovation. The event incorporated cutting-edge technology, providing enhanced experiences for both athletes and spectators. From advanced analytics to track athlete performance to interactive experiences for fans, the 2023 EYOF set a benchmark for the integration of technology in youth sports events. Moreover, the festival highlighted initiatives promoting youth engagement in sports, fostering leadership skills, and emphasising the importance of physical activity for overall well-being among young individuals.