Torrent of gold medals for the HDF in France
Text: Reserve Major Anita Kállay-Nagy | Photo: by the author, EUROGAMES112 | 09:38 May 27, 2026There was an outstanding Hungarian success at the EuroGames112 international swimming competition organized in Albi, France: Reserve Major Anita Kállay-Nagy, a soldier of the Hungarian Defence Forces 1st Territorial Defence Regiment collected four gold medals at the prestigious international test of strength.
This year’s competition was hosted by Albi, a town whose historical and special atmosphere provided a worthy venue for the international sporting event. The EuroGames112, however, is much more than a mere competition: it is at once the celebration of camaraderie, togetherness and the collective sense of vocation.
The event brought together participants from several European countries – soldiers, police, firefighters, first medical responders, air traffic controllers and doctors – who competed to compare their preparedness and endurance in 15 sport disciplines this year. The aim of the competition is to achieve that the experts – who are responsible for other people’s safety and lives day after day – can demonstrate their performance through sports as well, while they become part of a strong international community.
Reserve Major Anita Kállay-Nagy, a swimmer of Honvéd Sport Club gave an outstanding performance in an international field, winning all her events. She stood on the top of the podium listening to the sounds of the Hungarian anthem on four occasions altogether, in backstroke, medley and two freestyle events.
In her childhood, Anita Kállay-Nagy did competitive swimming for ten years, and last year she started to seriously prepare with the swimming team of Honvéd SC again. The workouts in the swimming pool at dawn also played a great role in her preparation, as she used to swim in an outdoor pool even at temperatures below 0° Celsius, often in trying circumstances.
“Those times strengthened me not only physically but also mentally. The military discipline, the dedication to sport and the support from my family came together to give me the strength that finally led to this result” – said Anita. She emphasized that as a reserve soldier, perseverance and setting an example are especially important to her.
“These values are key, both in sport and military service. It was a huge honor and a lifetime experience to represent Hungary and the Hungarian Defence Forces in France” – added Anita Kállay-Nagy.
