APCOM

Sixty years after the first post-war Olympics, those of London 1948, the memory of some members of that Italian team still lights up. They were Games of hope and fantasy, the palpable image of a possible resumption after extremely tough times. Five of them were awarded yesterday in Milano at Palazzo Giureconsulti, which traditionally hosts the International Festival dedicated to sport cinema and television organized by FICTS (Fédération Internationale Cinéma Télévision sportifs). Next edition will take place from October 31st to November 5th.

Among the six finalists of the 400 metres hurdles in the legendary English Games was Ottavio Missoni, the renowned bright stylist who, as a young person, committed to track and field and still now takes part in Master competitions successfully (he's the reigning shot put World Champion). Missoni was shown the exclusive shoot of that final offered by IOC, the International Olympic Committee. "We reached the final with the relay too: thanks to an excellent time, we even eliminated Great Britain. Unfortunately, however, Giovanni Rocca, got injured and our chances to be on the podium faded away."

The special prize was also bestowed to the former fencer Edoardo Mangiarotti, the Italian sportsman who has won the highest number of Olympics medals, 13. In London he 'only' gained three, one of which, with his brother Dario, in the foil's team event. From springboard to water, rowing gold medalists Giuseppe Moioli and Franco Faggi received their award. And, going back to track and field, the 4x100 meters runner Piero Bassetti who, once having ended his sports career, began an as much brilliant career in finance and politics, becoming the first president of Lombardia region and of Milano's Chamber of Commerce.