Road to Dakar programme's last stop was held before the Youth Olympics, bringing together 35 wrestlers who participated in the Beach Wrestling competition in Dakar.
DAKAR, Senegal (November 11) -- The Road to Dakar programme was designed to help wrestlers reach their goals at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
For the final stage of the programme, 35 wrestlers participated in a special international acclimatization camp ahead of the Youth Olympics' Beach Wrestling competition.
The participants of the camp showed their skills on the sand and won multiple medals, including two winning gold medals and becoming Youth Olympic champions in Dakar.
Wilfredo RODRIGUEZ (VEN) won the gold medal in the Men's 60kg weight class while Yolayni ROSADO (DOM) was crowned champion in the Women's 75kg weight class.
Held from October 30 to November 5, the camp combined technical and tactical preparation with educational activities, cultural experiences and opportunities for international exchange. Apart from the 35 wrestlers, the camp also included 20 coaches, five National Federation representatives and seven members of the United World Wrestling team.
Training sessions took place on the beaches surrounding the Savana Dakar Hotel, allowing athletes to prepare in conditions similar to those they would experience during competition. The programme included technical training, simulated matches, tactical exercises and recovery sessions.
Beyond sporting preparation, education and personal development were central to the camp. Five-time Olympic champion Mijain LOPEZ (CUB) and Tokyo Olympic silver medalist Blessing OBORUDUDU (NGR) served as role models and sources of inspiration for the young athletes.
Participants also took part in sessions covering Olympic values, fair play, leadership and anti-doping education, reinforcing the importance of clean sport and the responsibilities that come with representing their countries. A cultural visit to Gorée Island provided an opportunity to discover an important part of Senegal's history and heritage.
The camp concluded with the delegations moving into the Olympic Village on November 5, marking the transition from preparation to competition.
The success of the camp was supported by the Senegalese Wrestling Federation (FSL), whose logistical and organisational contribution, in close cooperation with UWW, helped ensure a positive experience for all participating delegations.
From regional competitions to the final preparations in Dakar, the Road to Dakar programme demonstrated the value of international cooperation, athlete development and investment in the next generation.
The opportunity to train and exchange experiences with athletes and coaches from around the world was widely appreciated.
"Many thanks to the entire team! I take with me a wonderful experience and memories that will remain in my heart!” said Felipe PACHAS, coach from Peru.
Luis FORCELLEDO, coach of Namibia, also praised the organisation. “I want to thank you for this opportunity we had to train together in this training camp which was very well organized."
