The beaches of Nabeul vibrated this Thursday to the rhythm of the fifteenth edition of the traditional “New Year’s Dive”, a sporting and festive event which brought together nearly 5,000 participants from different regions of the country and of all ages.
Organized on the occasion of the first day of the new year, the event, initiated by the Tunisian Federation of Sport for All in collaboration with the Nabeul Regional Youth and Sports Commission, began in the early hours of the morning. The participants braved the winter cold at the beginning of January by jumping into the sea, transforming this ordeal into a moment of conviviality and collective celebration.
Beyond the traditional sea swimming competition, the event was distinguished by a rich and varied program of sporting and fun activities, deployed all along the beach. Tents dedicated to free medical consultations, as well as areas dedicated to electronic games, were set up as part of a global initiative called “Citizen Sports Village” by the organizers.
In a statement to the TAP agency, the president of the Tunisian Federation of Sport for All, Marouane Chaïeb, underlined that the growing notoriety of the “New Year’s Dive”, which has become a real sporting ritual on several Tunisian beaches, has been used to promote the practice of sport among the general public. More than twenty sporting disciplines, open to all, were offered, with the aim of spreading a sustainable culture of physical activity.
Active participation of numerous associations
He also highlighted the strong mobilization of outdoor sports enthusiasts and the active participation of numerous associations, which largely contributed to the success of the event and the festive atmosphere that reigned throughout the day. The event thus served as a platform to transmit positive messages in favor of sports practice, essential for preserving health and preventing diseases.
Discussing the benefits of swimming in the sea during winter, Marouane Chaïeb recalled that it notably promotes the stimulation of blood circulation, helps prevent colds and contributes to the regulation of heart rate. He estimated that the sporting and festive nature of this day, experienced in a warm family atmosphere, will strengthen the anchoring of sporting culture among citizens.
Furthermore, the organizers took care to offer alternatives to people who did not participate in swimming, through around twenty activities that can be practiced on the beach, including a five-kilometer walk, a sea walk, table tennis, traditional games and archery.
