THE LARGEST SAILING RACE IN THE WORLD
Trieste, 1 - 12 October 2025
Trieste, 1 - 12 October 2025
Barcolana - News04.10.25
Where passion meets the sea: the “pop” stories of the regatta
Among the many boats that sail each year in the Gulf of Trieste is Laura, the Dullia S30 owned by Massimo Franceschini, representing a story of family tradition and inclusion. The boat has been part of the family since 1992 and has seen generations at the helm, from summer cruises in Croatia to regattas.
Massimo proudly recalls how, in the early 2000s, Laura was the first boat to host blind sailors during the Barcolana: “That was our greatest victory.”
Barcolana has always been a key event for the crew, who have participated in every edition since the 50th. “Our motto is simple: have fun without causing damage,” says Massimo, surrounded by friends and relatives who share the same passion for sailing.
Not far away, another boat tells a story of personal rebirth and the joy of sailing: Mery, an Elan 707 helmed by Valter Valvasori and registered with the Circolo Nautico Gruarius of Portogruaro.
Purchased in 2016, this 1978 boat has become a true companion on Valter’s adventures and a way to face difficult times: “I took up sailing to commit myself to something new after the premature passing of my wife. Every navigation, from strong-wind sails to moments of total calm, is a precious memory.”
Valter has taken part in Barcolana since the 50th edition, choosing his crew according to the weather conditions in order to enjoy every regatta without pressure – with the pleasure of being at sea as the main goal. “I’ve never sailed to win, but for the pure joy of participating,” he explains. “Each outing is an opportunity for sharing and serenity.”
In Chioggia, another boat tells a story of friendship, passion and rebirth: 4MONKEYS, a FAT 26 from the Treviso Sailing Club, skippered by Giampietro Sforza. Formerly known as Mind the Gap, a multi-award-winning boat in the Italian Minialtura Championships and the European Sport Boat Championships, it had been abandoned at the Venice Lido until a group of four friends decided to bring it back to life. The restoration was a labour of love, carried out entirely by the group, transforming the boat into a symbol of their friendship and shared passion for sailing.
Their best Barcolana result remains 217th overall, but for the crew, true success lies in the joy of sailing together, training new generations of sailors and sharing the enthusiasm that unites hundreds of enthusiasts.
Massimo proudly recalls how, in the early 2000s, Laura was the first boat to host blind sailors during the Barcolana: “That was our greatest victory.”
Barcolana has always been a key event for the crew, who have participated in every edition since the 50th. “Our motto is simple: have fun without causing damage,” says Massimo, surrounded by friends and relatives who share the same passion for sailing.
Not far away, another boat tells a story of personal rebirth and the joy of sailing: Mery, an Elan 707 helmed by Valter Valvasori and registered with the Circolo Nautico Gruarius of Portogruaro.
Purchased in 2016, this 1978 boat has become a true companion on Valter’s adventures and a way to face difficult times: “I took up sailing to commit myself to something new after the premature passing of my wife. Every navigation, from strong-wind sails to moments of total calm, is a precious memory.”
Valter has taken part in Barcolana since the 50th edition, choosing his crew according to the weather conditions in order to enjoy every regatta without pressure – with the pleasure of being at sea as the main goal. “I’ve never sailed to win, but for the pure joy of participating,” he explains. “Each outing is an opportunity for sharing and serenity.”
In Chioggia, another boat tells a story of friendship, passion and rebirth: 4MONKEYS, a FAT 26 from the Treviso Sailing Club, skippered by Giampietro Sforza. Formerly known as Mind the Gap, a multi-award-winning boat in the Italian Minialtura Championships and the European Sport Boat Championships, it had been abandoned at the Venice Lido until a group of four friends decided to bring it back to life. The restoration was a labour of love, carried out entirely by the group, transforming the boat into a symbol of their friendship and shared passion for sailing.
Their best Barcolana result remains 217th overall, but for the crew, true success lies in the joy of sailing together, training new generations of sailors and sharing the enthusiasm that unites hundreds of enthusiasts.
