by InTrieste
The Barcolana Regatta, renowned as one of the world’s largest and most inclusive sailing events, once again turned the Gulf of Trieste into a sea of colorful sails, passionate sailors, and committed advocates of environmental sustainability. This year, Barcolana 2024 is not only about the thrill of competition, but also a celebration of women in sailing and a spotlight on the critical importance of sustainability in sports and the marine world.
At the heart of this year’s event are inspiring female sailors who are breaking barriers and shaping the future of the sport. Among them is Lydia Sarlay, part of the Night Shadow maxi yacht. “Sailing has always been a space for collaboration, but now it’s becoming a platform for visibility, particularly for women,” said Sarlay in an exclusive interview, as she discussed her team’s goals and the evolving landscape of the sport.
Cheryl Webster and Jacqueline Hürlimann, also from Night Shadow, echoed this sentiment, underscoring how Barcolana fosters a sense of community. “We’re here to show that sailing is for everyone, and this event is a brilliant reminder of that,” said Webster. Hürlimann added, “It’s exhilarating to be part of such an international gathering where skill and teamwork are everything.”
On the Elle boat, Marta Bonetti stood out as a competitor focused not only on racing but also on advocating for eco-friendly practices in the sailing world. “Barcolana is making strides in sustainability, and it’s a responsibility we all have as sailors. It’s our playground, and we must protect it,” she emphasized.
Tina Mrak, a three-time Olympian who raced on Hagazussa 3, also shared her reflections. “For me, Barcolana is a homecoming. I’ve competed on some of the biggest stages, but this event has a special energy. And it’s encouraging to see how sustainability has become such a central theme here,” said Mrak, who hopes that the regatta’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact will inspire other international events.
Barcolana 2024’s commitment to sustainability is palpable throughout the regatta’s numerous initiatives. From eco-friendly boat designs to reducing plastic waste and promoting clean energy solutions, the organizers have made environmental stewardship a priority. The regatta is also partnering with environmental groups to raise awareness of ocean pollution and climate change, with the hope of setting a standard for other global sporting events.
As the regatta continues to grow in both size and significance, the role of women in the competition is also expanding, thanks to the increasing number of female skippers, crew members, and advocates within the sport. With captivating performances and forward-thinking approaches to sustainability, Barcolana 2024 is proving that the future of sailing is both inclusive and environmentally conscious.
The combination of thrilling races, inspiring women athletes, and a steadfast dedication to sustainability ensures that Barcolana remains at the forefront of global sailing, attracting competitors and spectators from across the world. And as these women continue to chart new waters, they remind us all that sailing is not just about crossing finish lines, but about making meaningful changes on and off the water.
Interviews: Lydia Sarlay, Cheryl Webster, and Jacqueline Hürlimann of Night Shadow maxi yacht, Marta Bonetti of Elle boat, Tina Mrak, three-time Olympian on Hagazussa 3
