The regatta, now in its 50th anniversary, will arrive in Genoa at the end of June for the Grand Finale
The Ocean Race, the most demanding regatta around the world, known as the Everest of sailing, started today in Alicante. For the first time, the competition, now in its 50th anniversary, will arrive in an Italian city, Genoa, which will host the Grand Finale at the end of June.
It was a special day especially for the sailors of Team Genova who, after an incredible run-up, showed up in the Spanish city of Alicante with an admired hull that will now compete in the race, in the first 1900 miles.
The mayor of Genoa Marco Bucci, the Italian ambassador to Spain Riccardo Guariglia and the Rear Admiral of the Navy Massimiliano Nannini greeted skipper Gerwin Jansen and his international crew on the quay.
“The adventure has begun”, commented the mayor, “Now the sporting challenge begins, and when these boats arrive in Genoa it will be a fantastic party”.
Double start for the 11 teams in the race. First the start for the six VO65s with the Italian-Austrian boat as protagonist with the cross of San Giorgio on the hull and an international crew in which the Italians Cecilia Zorzi and Alberto Riva stand out. Italian presence also in the 5 IMOCA60 boats thanks to Francesca Clapcich, in her second participation and embarked on the favorites of ’11 Hours Team Racing ‘.
Like the sporting challenge, the organizers of The Ocean Race have focused heavily on the challenge of sustainability. The tender will have a particular focus on the fight against ocean pollution.
“Through a sailing competition – highlighted the Italian ambassador in Madrid, Riccardo Guariglia – not only sporting values are conveyed but also more ambitious goals shared by Italy, linked to the United Nations 2030 Agenda. The Genova Process sign is a further source of pride for our country”.
The protagonist of the day was also Tommaso Cassissa, Genoese content creator and actor, with one million three hundred thousand followers on Instagram. He agreed to be the ‘Leg Jumper’ of Team Genova.
A tradition of The Ocean Race that requires each boat to bring a character on board for the start who, immediately after the start, dives into the sea.
“It was a beautiful emotion – said Cassissa – even if I assure you the water is pretty cold. Experience the preparations of the crew and go on board with them for the parade was beautiful. I found a young and very passionate crew. It’s great to see such a beautiful boat competing under our Genoa flag. I am proud to have been able to give my contribution to making this wonderful adventure known even among the many young people who follow me. I will also be there for the Grand Finale and I will be cheering for Team Genova in these months!”.
From Alicante to Genoa, the start of the regatta was followed live by many enthusiasts on the numerous national and local media channels, but many also wanted to experience the event at the Old Port where, for the occasion, a stage was set up right next to the giant screen of ‘Genova The Grand Finale’ which will broadcast images of the regatta around the world every day until the party that will close this edition at the Waterfront di Levante, from 24 June to 2 July.
An afternoon of music and hip hop shows but also a special stage of the World Pesto Championship.
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