EUROSAF Inclusive European Championships
In Trieste, the sea once again told a story of resilience, teamwork, and possibility. The Barcolana Para Sailing – EUROSAF Inclusive European Championships, held during the iconic Barcolana festival, brought together athletes from across Europe to prove that in sailing, there are no limits – only opportunities.
Hosted in partnership with EUROSAF, the Italian Sailing Federation (FIV), and World Sailing, this year’s championship marked a powerful showcase of the “Limitless” spirit driving the campaign for sailing’s return to the Paralympic Games.
Twenty-three crews from across Europe competed in the Hansa 303 class, facing the legendary Bora winds of the Adriatic – strong, unpredictable, and every bit as determined as the sailors themselves. The racing was tight, tactical, and full of heart, with the following champions crowned:
- Men’s Single: Carmelo Forastieri (LNI Palermo)
- Women’s Single: Alessandra Franchi (YC Punta Ala)
- Youth Single: Alessandra Cappellu (Veliamoci ASD)
- Double (Mixed Crew): Lucia Garay & Maria Cristina Atoni
Each performance was a reminder that talent, courage, and connection know no barriers.
Alessandra Franchi (ITA), winner of the Women’s fleet, said, “What an experience! Beyond the results I achieved, it was a learning weekend. During the regatta, the wind challenged us not only because of its intensity but also because of the constant shifts. The races were exciting and adrenaline-filled with a competitive fleet. The organisation of the event was fantastic, from the help getting on the boat to the pasta party after the races. It was a pleasure to participate in one of Europe’s most important Para Inclusive Sailing events, part of the wide range of Barcolana events. I conclude this experience with the certainty that the sea can be inclusive and accessible to all.”
Rory Mckinna (GBR), second in the Men’s event, added, “It was great to be back racing at Barcolana and good to see more nations participating in the unique competition. I think it is of great value for inclusive sailing to be part of this celebration of the wider sport, and the volunteers and staff at Barcolana always make us feel welcome and a valued part of the event.”
World Sailing extends its heartfelt thanks to EUROSAF for their continued leadership in promoting inclusive sailing across Europe, and to EUROSAF President Pınar Coşkuner Genç, who served as Principal Race Officer (PRO) and led the racing with integrity, professionalism, and passion.
Barcolana is more than a regatta – it’s a movement that unites thousands of sailors and spectators under one belief: that the sea belongs to everyone. By hosting the Inclusive Europeans at the heart of its 12-day celebration, Barcolana once again demonstrated that inclusion is not a side note to our sport – it is its strength.
Even when the wind paused racing, the energy didn’t stop. Sailors, coaches, and officials gathered for an open Sailors Forum, sharing perspectives on the future of inclusive sailing, pathways for new athletes, and the global momentum toward Brisbane 2032. These conversations – honest, hopeful, and deeply human are what make our community truly limitless.
The success of the event in Trieste is more than a moment – it’s a milestone. It reflects the power of collaboration between World Sailing, EUROSAF, FIV, and Barcolana in driving the “Limitless” message forward: that sailing is open, inclusive, and without boundaries.
Every tack, every finish line crossed, and every voice raised in Trieste carried the same message – We are One Sport. One community. Limitless.
