by InTrieste
The 56th edition of the Barcolana, the world’s largest sailing regatta, concluded yesterday with a grand awards ceremony at Trieste’s Politeama Rossetti theater. Held under the sponsorship of Generali, this year’s event, which took place on October 13, showcased not only breathtaking racing but also the city’s deep maritime heritage.
The regatta, described by Mitja Gialuz, president of the Barcola and Grignano Sailing Society, as “one of the most technical in Barcolana’s history,” was marked by the rare presence of a libeccio wind. This unusual occurrence in the Gulf of Trieste made for a uniquely challenging competition, thrilling participants and spectators alike.
“The libeccio offered an intense and emotional experience both on the water and ashore,” Gialuz said. “Barcolana represents a collective effort—an extraordinary project uniting tradition and innovation while embodying the special energy of Trieste.”
A Year of Milestones and New Honors
The ceremony celebrated the achievements of 123 crews across 15 categories, including One-Design classes such as Melges 24, Ufo 28, and J24. In addition to traditional trophies, three new awards debuted this year:
- The Miro Cernaz Trophy, honoring the late maritime director of the Barcola and Grignano Sailing Society.
- The Solaris Trophy, commemorating 50 years of the Aquileia shipyard.
- The La Mula de Trieste Trophy, recognizing the top-performing female Triestine skipper with the most regatta participations.
The latter, a challenge trophy featuring a bronze model of the beloved “Mula de Trieste” sculpture by artist Nino Spagnoli, was presented to Cristina Orlando, skipper of Sorcetto.
In a moment highlighting gender equity in sailing, the Generali Women in Sailing Trophy honored Giulia Leghissa (Anywave Junior), Federica Mathion Tuniz (Bandito), and Gaja Kolarič (Hagazussa III). Introduced in 2019, the initiative aims to break barriers for women in the sport. This year, it expanded to include a study by SWG that examines obstacles to mixed-gender teams.
“Generali is committed to fostering diversity,” said Emma Ursich, Generali’s Corporate Identity Director. “This trophy is part of a larger project to support sailors and clubs in creating inclusive opportunities.”
Celebrating Trieste’s Maritime Spirit
The awards ceremony, hosted by Fabio Colivicchi and Zita Fusco, reflected the celebratory spirit of Barcolana. Trieste’s Pupkin Kabarett performers provided musical interludes, while local dignitaries, including Councillor Elisa Lodi and Regional Councillor Fabio Scoccimarro, underscored the city and region’s support for the event.
The grand prize winners of Barcolana56 included:
- Fulvio Molinari Trophy – Brava (Francesco Pison)
- Port of Trieste Trophy – Pòra (Claudio Tonoli)
- FIV Challenge Trophy – Elfje (Eleven Eleven Ltd)
- Fair Play Trophy – Veliki Viharni (A2A Sailing Studio Race)
As Trieste prepares for the 57th edition on October 12, 2025, the regatta remains a beacon of innovation, inclusivity, and community—a testament to the enduring appeal of one of the world’s most storied maritime events.
