Italy Shines at the World Military Championships in Doha: Double Gold for Filippo Codecasa

The 2024 World Military Equestrian Championships, held in Doha, Qatar, brought together the best military riders from across the globe in a thrilling display of skill and resilience. Among the standout performances was Italy’s Filippo Codecasa, a proud member of the Gruppo Sportivo dei Carabinieri, who claimed double gold — one in the team competition and another in the individual category.

The Italian team, composed of Filippo Codecasa, Andrea Calabro, and Emanuele Addis, was expertly led by capo equipeAndrea Mezzaroba and Commander Marco Del Nevo. Together, they showcased exceptional composure and adaptability, securing a dominant position on the international stage.

A Unique and Challenging Competition

The World Military Championships differed significantly from traditional equestrian events, with a unique format that added a layer of unpredictability. Riders were paired with randomly assigned horses, switching mounts daily. Each rider had only six practice jumps to familiarize themselves with their horse before entering the competition.

Codecasa explained the challenge:
“You had very little time to adjust to the horse. Luckily, I have experience riding a variety of horses, and I managed to adapt to all three mounts, even though they were very different from each other. Riders who were used to riding only one type of horse found it more difficult.”

This challenging format tested not only the technical skills of the riders but also their ability to quickly bond with unfamiliar horses — a rare and rewarding experience for the participants.

The Venue: A World-Class Equestrian Facility

The championships were hosted at one of Doha’s premier equestrian centers, a venue renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and regular hosting of major international competitions. Codecasa praised the organization, saying:
“The organization was impeccable. Doha regularly hosts major international competitions, and everything was perfectly arranged. It was a pleasure to compete in such a well-prepared setting.”

The venue’s world-class infrastructure, combined with Qatar’s commitment to excellence in equestrian sports, made for a seamless and enjoyable event.

Team Italy’s Triumph

Facing tough competition from 14 nations and 44 individual riders, the Italian team maintained consistent performances throughout the event, securing the prestigious team gold medal. The Italian riders’ ability to adapt and deliver under pressure was key to their success. Codecasa reflected on the team’s journey:
“As the days went on, we realized we were in a strong position. But with this format, there’s always a bit of anxiety because you never know how well you’ll connect with the next horse. We stayed focused until the very last jump.”

Filippo Codecasa’s Individual Gold

In addition to his contribution to the team’s victory, Codecasa delivered a stellar performance in the individual competition. On the final day, he was paired with a particularly spirited horse, but his skill and composure prevailed.
“The last horse was a bit nervous, but I managed to establish a good rhythm quickly, and everything went as I hoped. Winning both team and individual gold was a dream come true,” he said.

Representing the Carabinieri

For Codecasa, these victories are even more meaningful as a representative of the Gruppo Sportivo dei Carabinieri. His success highlights the excellence of the Carabinieri’s equestrian program and their commitment to fostering top-tier talent.
“I’m incredibly proud to represent the Carabinieri at such an important event. Their support and trust in me have been instrumental in achieving these results.”

A Memorable Experience

Reflecting on the championship, Codecasa emphasized the uniqueness of the event:
“This was an experience I’d recommend to everyone. It’s so different from a regular international competition. Having just six jumps to get to know a horse is a rare challenge, and it’s something I’ll never forget.”

The Legacy of the Championships

The 2024 World Military Championships not only showcased the incredible talent of military riders like Codecasa but also reinforced the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and resilience in equestrian sports. For Team Italy and the Carabinieri, the double gold is a testament to their skill, preparation, and determination, setting a high standard for future competitions.

As Codecasa and his teammates return home, they carry with them the pride of a nation and the spirit of excellence that defines the Italian military equestrian tradition.

Valentina Sozzi | ph Stefano Secchi

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