Andorra's Nine Athletes Gear Up for Demanding Mediterranean Games in Taranto
Andorra sends nine athletes to the Mediterranean Games in Taranto, Italy, viewing it as a vital arena for development despite its intensity. Leaders stress enjoyment, support, and international exposure over medal pressure.
Key Points
- Delegation includes athletes in athletics, taekwondo, rhythmic gymnastics, and pétanque, led by flag-bearers Naiara Liñan and Jon Fortes.
- Presented by Olympic Committee president Xavier Espot and Sports Minister Mònica Bonell at Andbank.
- Games from August 21 to September 3 viewed as Olympic-level challenge with world-class competition.
- Athletes like Pol Moya (1,500m), Berta Miquel (rhythmic gymnastics), and pétanque trio aim for strong showings and experience.
Andorra's nine athletes are set to compete at the Mediterranean Games in Taranto, Italy, from 21 August to 3 September, representing the country across athletics, taekwondo, rhythmic gymnastics, and pétanque.
The delegation, introduced on Monday at Andbank by Andorran Olympic Committee president Xavier Espot and Sports Minister Mònica Bonell, includes Duna Viñals, Nahuel Carabaña, Pol Moya, Ariadna Fenés, and Eloi Vilella in athletics under coach Josep Carballude. Naiara Liñan will enter taekwondo with technician Diego Ortigoza, while Berta Miquel competes in rhythmic gymnastics for Clàudia López. Pétanque features Jon Fortes, Bruno Santmann, and Patrick Senzier, with Jordi Orteu as mission head.
Espot described the Games as highly demanding, akin to an Olympic event due to strong participating nations and frequent world records. He highlighted the competitive nature of Andorra's sizable team, noting that high-level competitions demand performance at each athlete's level. Liñan and Fortes, who served as flag-bearers at the 2022 edition in Algeria, will again carry the Andorran flag, embodying the delegation's present and future.
Bonell congratulated the athletes, praising their sustained effort, discipline, and resilience—often built through daily dedication and overcoming setbacks. She emphasized the qualification process as evidence of Andorra's sporting talent and ambition.
Fortes expressed pride in representing Andorra, vowing to fight until the last ball against top pétanque nations following recent competition in Montpellier. His main goal: secure at least one win and aim high.
Pol Moya, from FC Barcelona and the Andorran Athletics Federation, will focus solely on the 1,500m, calling a dual entry with the 800m suicidal given the schedule. He aims to reach the final while prioritizing the Games over broader season goals.
Berta Miquel, fresh from a solid World Championships showing in Frankfurt—particularly on ribbon and hoop—seeks a steady season finale. She views a podium as unlikely against global powerhouses but targets consistent execution.
Officials position the event as a platform for gaining experience, measuring progress, and boosting Andorra's international sports presence.
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