OpenSkiff Eurochallenge at Calasetta - Day 1
by Elena Giolai 18 Apr 22:18 BST
18-20 April 2025
2025 OpenSkiff Eurochallenge © Elena Giolai
The first leg of the Euro Challenge OpenSkiff got off to a lively and energetic start in Calasetta. This event also serves as the second FIV national regatta of the season for the OpenSkiff class in Italy. It combines sport, nature and an international spirit, with 122 young sailors - 37 in the Under 13 fleet and 85 in the Under 17 - coming from Italy, Switzerland, Poland and Hungary.
The lush landscape of Calasetta, revitalised by recent rainfall, provided a stunning backdrop to a day graced by sunshine and a steady medium-light breeze - ideal conditions for completing the first three scheduled races. However, a strong current made starts particularly tricky, and after several general recalls, the Race Committee was forced to raise the black flag, resulting in a number of disqualifications for premature starts (BFD). These penalties had a notable impact on the results from the outset and influenced the entire day.
In the Under 13 category, the provisional leaderboard remains close, with the top five sailors tightly packed. Davide De Felice, representing CN Posillipo, currently holds the lead after posting a 6th, 3rd and 1st in the day's races. Hot on his heels is Gabriele Lizzulli from CN Argentario with a 4th, 7th and 2nd, while Polish sailor Sowa sits in third position after scoring three consistent races (5-5-4). Among the Under 13 girls, Gaia Sabbatino of LNI Sulcis delivered a standout performance, including an impressive second place overall in one race, making it her best result of the day.
In the Under 17 fleet, featuring 85 sailors, the day was dominated by Sviatoslav Yasnolobov of CN Rimini, who opened with a second place followed by two commanding wins. Trailing him is Aurora Milanese, from Circolo Vela Arco, whose consistent results (3-2-7) earned her second place overall and top spot among the girls. Sitko from Poland currently sits in third, thanks to a solid performance throughout the day (8-3-3).
The event is organised by the Lega Navale Italiana del Sulcis, a club with a long-standing commitment to youth sailing, with the support of the Autonomous Region of Sardinia and the Municipality of Calasetta. Key partners also include the Marina di Calasetta and the Italian and International OpenSkiff Classes, both of which play a vital role in the development of this young, fun and dynamic sailing discipline.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere is the presence of many families who have travelled to Sardinia for the Easter holidays to support their young sailors. Their involvement has turned this regatta into a true celebration of sport, community and discovery of the local territory.
Tomorrow, racing continues with another three races scheduled, starting from 11:00.