Nick Pelios
Freediver, Creator
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Nick Pelios
Freediver, Creator
The CMAS 8th World Championship Freediving Depth is a highly anticipated event that brings together the best freedivers from around the globe to compete in one of the most exhilarating and demanding sports on the planet. Set against the stunning backdrop of Kalamata, Greece, this championship showcases the remarkable skills, mental fortitude, and physical endurance of elite athletes as they dive into the depths of the Mediterranean Sea. Join us as we dive into the highlights of the first two days of this prestigious championship.
The opening day of the CMAS 8th World Championship Freediving Depth in Kalamata, Greece, set the stage for an exhilarating week filled with competitive spirit and record-breaking performances. Athletes showcased their skills in the calm, crystal-clear waters of Messinian Bay, creating the perfect environment for impressive dives.
The highlight of the day came from the Alexey Molchanov, who clinched gold in the men's Constant Weight with Monofin (CWT) discipline with an awe-inspiring dive to 135 meters. Known for his impeccable technique and unwavering mental focus, Molchanov made this challenging dive appear effortless. As the reigning world champion and world-record holder, he solidified his dominance in the sport, emerging from the water composed and reaffirming his position at the top.
Greek athlete Emmanouil Giankos also shone brightly, achieving a remarkable dive to 118 meters and securing second place with a new national record. Giankos delivered a powerful performance, showcasing his technical prowess and mental resilience. Competing on home soil, this dive was a proud moment for Greece and signaled his potential to challenge the sport's elite throughout the week.
Completing the podium was Davide Carrera from Italy, who took third place with a strong dive to 116 meters. Carrera, an experienced competitor, demonstrated his consistency and control at depth, reaffirming his status as one of the top contenders in this year's championship.
A special mention goes to Alexander Kusakin, who performed a Para Freediving World Record dive to 46 meters. Congratulations, Alexander!
With the first day wrapped up, the competition is just heating up. Athletes will soon tackle other disciplines, including Free Immersion (FIM), Constant Weight No Fins (CNF), and Constant Weight with Bi-Fins (CWT-BF), presenting new challenges and opportunities for record-breaking dives.
Watch The Video Highlights From Day 1
Day 2 of the CMAS 8th World Championship Freediving Depth in Kalamata showcased an exciting showdown in the women’s Constant Weight (CWT) discipline. The world’s top female freedivers took to the depths of the Mediterranean, with Slovenia’s Alenka Artnik once again proving her dominance by defending her world championship title for an incredible fifth consecutive year.
Artnik did not disappoint, claiming first place with a spectacular dive to 116 meters. Her performance was a perfect blend of grace, strength, and composure, trademarks that have established her as the reigning queen of CWT freediving. Emerging from the water calm and collected, Artnik secured her fifth gold medal, leaving fans and fellow athletes in awe of her consistent mastery at such extreme depths.
Following closely was Hanako Hirose of Japan, who delivered a stellar dive to 113 meters, earning second place. Known for her precision and mental toughness, Hirose showcased her ability to stay calm under pressure, surfacing with perfect control despite a longer-than-planned dive. Her composure and skill were commendable.
Rounding out the podium was Alessia Zecchini from Italy, who secured third place with a solid dive to 109 meters. A multiple world-record holder, Zecchini demonstrated her experience in the water. Although she opted for a conservative announcement due to challenging weather predictions, her technically flawless performance still earned her a spot on the podium.
The calm waters of Kalamata, combined with ideal diving conditions, have set the stage for a remarkable championship. As the competition progresses, the excitement builds for the remaining disciplines, including Free Immersion (FIM) and Constant Weight No Fins (CNF)1. With fierce competition and the potential for new records, the coming days promise even more extraordinary feats of depth and endurance.
