Once again, the HTMi Centre for Events Management was approached by the organisers of the 2014 Armada Cup to send another group of volunteers to participate at this year’s event. This is the second year HTMi has taken part and this is due to the centre’s highly acknowledged reputation as well as the high standards and professionalism of the HTMi students.

The Armada Cup is an international rowing championship held annually in Bern and attracts athletes of all ages from around the world. This year’s event was held on Saturday, 25th October 2014, and thirty-seven enthusiastic students from HTMi volunteered to help at the International Swiss Regatta competition. During the day different types of races were held ranging from Junior to Master classes for both male and female, including the exciting Dragon Boat race. The day finished with the VIP-race where politicians, active and former sport stars compete in a charitable race.

Not only did HTMi students have the chance to meet different athletes, press and media personals from different countries, it was an excellent chance to gain experience and learn first-hand how a sporting event is organised. 37 students ranging from second year of their bachelor degree to masters level took part and were deployed in various departments such as VIP logistics, press lounge, VIP catering, beverage, media support, transportation, registration and helping athletes before and after the race.

The organisers of the event were exceptionally delighted and amazed with the high levels of professionalism, quality, training, teamwork and level of discipline displayed by the HTMi team. At the end of the event, one of the main organisers, Ms. Angie Furrer, told the group “we would like to have HTMi back next year as everyone enjoys the HTMi students and having them around”.

We are extremely proud of our students, not only did they meet the expectations of the organisers but exceeded them. We believe opportunities to be part of such events not only gives the students an effective platform to learn from the “real world” but also an opportunity to build teamwork with friends and colleagues. HTMi would like to thank the organisers of the Armada Cup 2014 for giving our students the opportunities, and we are already looking forward to next year’s Armada Cup 2015.

Anthony Lack, HTMi Training & Events Manager, October 2014

Row