Training Camp for the Mind, Body and Soul

Conica has been developing and manufacturing innovative seamless sports flooring solutions for over 40 years. This is also the case for the Centro Desportivo da Madeira in Portugal, which was visited by athletes recently.

Nestled in the Ribeira Brava valley of Madeira, where a peaceful landscape is present with the contrast of rugged landscapes meeting the soothing lap of ocean waters, is an impressive centre establishing itself as a premier training camp facility catering to athletes of all levels.

Centro Desportivo da Madeira was opened in 2007 by the Development Societies to promote the sports sector on the island. It encompasses all the essential features required for a contemporary training camp facility, while also fosters a sense of overall well-being by synergizing with the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Recently, four ambitious athletes from Germany and Switzerland, as well as their coach, have visited the facility to test the comprehensive offerings and accommodation. Tim Nowak, a German decathlete, mentioned he was impressed that the center offers a range of facilities that cater to both athletics pursuits and leisure family activities. In addition, all visitors are treated to a picturesque view from every corner of the center.

“For me personally, it’s always crucial to find a place that takes me away from the familiar surroundings, a complete contrast to the dull, indoor facilities in Germany,” Nowak said. “And this place truly offers everything I need. I can head to the beach right after training, and the view is consistently breathtaking and unlike anything we have back home.”

The modern complex itself features a natural turf field as well as two synthetic turf fields. There is also an eight-lane athletics track, gym, tennis court, two Padel tennis courts, covered multi-sports area, mini golf, bicycle path and a 10-station maintenance course. The facility features an easy-to-use online tool to schedule visits to the complex and reserve camps.

Visitors, including athletes from all over the world, rave about the top-tier accommodations and well-trained employees who elevate the experience of visiting the complex.

“The facilities are all impeccably clean and well-maintained,” stated Sarah Weber, an athletics coach. “Additionally, the people here are extremely friendly and accommodating.”

Enrico Güntert, a Swiss sprinter, said one of the most appealing aspects of the Madeira Sports Center is its expansive options and versatility, especially when things like inclement weather affect his plans on the track.

Güntert described the track at the facility as one of the most breathtaking tracks he has ever had the chance to use. Spanning a standard length of 400 meters, the track boasts a synthetic surface specifically designed to cater to eight runners. It is currently in the approval process to obtain certification from both World Athletics (formerly IAAF) and the Portuguese Athletics Federation (FPA). The 400-meter oval track was constructed using materials from CONICA, a renowned company based in Switzerland widely recognized for providing tracks to prestigious events such as the Diamond League Meetings, including Weltklasse Zurich, Herculis Monaco, and Bauhaus Galan in Stockholm, among others.

“The track is incredible,” concurs Lydia Boll, a Swiss heptathlete. “It offers a pleasant level of bounce, making it remarkably gentle on the joints and perfect for training and season preparation. It’s truly ideal for a training camp, where high-impact and intensive training sessions are common. Thanks to this track, you shouldn’t experience any discomfort in your feet or shins.”

Sports enthusiasts and competitive athletes come from all over the world to train at Centro Desportivo da Madeira, including Riccarda Dietsche, who said she realized the full benefits of the track after a few days of running on the material.

“My initial impression of the track was that it was incredibly bouncy,” expressed the athlete. “This characteristic significantly minimizes the impact on joints and muscles, particularly during sprinting.”

In addition to the outstanding facilities, guests were accommodated at the five-star hotel Savoy Saccharum Resort & Spa, providing a haven of relaxation after intense training sessions. The hotel features a rooftop pool and a spacious spa facility, offering a perfect opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate. For those who want more after a day full of hard work at the sports center, Royal Savoy also offers island tours and special events, including Portuguese lessons and dance workshops.

The packages offered by Madeira are highly appealing to athletics clubs of all levels. Boll noted the entire experience at Centro Desportivo da Madeira as immensely positive, especially to prepare for the upcoming track and field season. “What can I say? The scenery is amazing. I don’t think I have ever seen something like it. It is really beautiful,” said Boll. “I think it is really worth coming and training here. You can enjoy the beautiful nature while enjoying what you love doing.” (STADIAWORLD, 22.06.2023)

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