Last week the CMAS World Championship Underwater Video and Photo was held at l’Estartit (Catalonia, Spain). The Event, organised by FECDAS in collaboration with FEDAS and CMAS, gathered over 100 participants from 19 countries, competing in the outstanding Medes Islands and Montrgrí coastline, a Marine Protected Area. 

In efforts to preserve the environment, the zero contact protocol was implemented during the competition, meaning that participants were not allowed to touch the seabed, rocks or walls, thus a perfect buoyancy and trim were required. 

In addition, the first CMAS World Cup Para Underwater Photo took place simultaneously, with representation from 4 countries. This marked a historic milestone, as it was the first of this kind photography tournament ever held, showcasing a strong organisational commitment and ensuring inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities in underwater sports. Renowned ocean athletes took part in the initiative, helping raise awareness about the importance of keeping the underwater world accessible and inclusive to all divers and ocean enthusiasts.

Among the remarkable participants was Irene Bolea, who achieved outstanding success at the CMAS World Cup Para Underwater Photo. She won the gold medal in the Fish category, along with two additional golds, one silver, and one bronze medal, supported by her assistants Ivan Gomez and Nani Diez. Her captivating winner photo can be seen below. 

On Friday, after the competition, the ANERIS project was presented by ICM-CSIC at the public library, with the attendance of several participants, explaining the roadmap for the upcoming year and how the project’s technologies are advancing. The MINKA participatory observatory was also mentioned, highlighting the importance of contributing with observations as a means to increase citizens’ knowledge on marine biodiversity. Participants were encouraged to upload photographs captured during the training sessions and to keep on contributing in their home countries.