(ATR) The New Zealand Olympic Committee is partnering with the community of Mangueira in northern Rio de Janeiro.
As part of the NOC’s social program for the Games, New Zealand athletes and coaches will grow sport with young members of the community ahead of the 2016 Olympics. In addition, the NOC will donate sporting equipment and clothing as part of the program.
Caroline Bilkey, New Zealand Ambassador to Brazil, and Rob Waddell, New Zealand chef de mission and 2000 Olympic gold medalist, represented the NOC to open the social program on March 17. The delegation was completed by Chinquinho da Mangueira, a Brazilian politician.
"Through sport young people develop confidence, communication, leadership and decision-making skills and we’re delighted to support the outstanding work of the Mangueira social project while we’re in Rio," Waddell said in a statement.
"We really want our athletes to connect with the vibrant local community and also make a positive impact on young people through sport."
Mangueira is best known for the famous samba school headquartered in the community. The school placed first during the 2016 Carnaval parade in Rio and performed for the opening of a new exhibit at the Olympic museum.
Casa Italia Progressing
Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and Italian National Olympic Committee President Giovanni Malagò will open Casa Italia ahead of the Rio 2016 Games.
Construction of the hospitality house remains ongoing at Costa Brava Clube, which is located in the neighborhood of Joa between the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro and Barra da Tijuca, where the Olympic Park is located.
CONI spent an estimated $700,000 to help renovate the club, which a spokesperson says will leave a legacy for the city of Rio. The NOC expects money from sponsors who will have space at the hospitality house will offset all costs.
Casa Italia will showcase Italian athletes during the Games and will broadcast live Olympic events from Italian rights-holder RAI. It will also be a space for Rome 2024 to showcase itself under IOC rules during the Games. Rome 2024 president Luca di Montezemolo will be present at Casa Italia, on behalf of the Italian Prime Minister.
Written by Aaron Bauer in Rio de Janeiro
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