Barcolana 57, Marta 07 awarded the Generali – Women in Sailing Trophy supporting mixed teams
The goal of the Women in Sailing project supported by Generali is promoting youth sailing through the creation of mixed teams, so that the number of women in decision-making roles on board is increased not only in the world's largest regatta, but in all sailing competitions
Over 1,800 boats registered for the 57th Barcolana Autumn Cup once again contributed to the show that brought Trieste into the spotlight. Arca Sgr of the Fast and Furio Sailing Team was first to cross the finish line in 1 hour and 43 minutes, followed by the team’s other boat, Marta 07 (named after Furio’s daughter and her birth year), setting a historic record: never before in a Barcolana had two boats from the same sailing team taken the top two positions.
The fifth edition of the Generali - Women in Sailing Trophy was awarded to the mixed team of Marta 07, which raced with Marta Benussi as helmswoman and Giulia Ascione as skipper, thus ranking as the first mixed team with a female skipper in command.
The Chairman of Generali, Andrea Sironi, said: "Barcolana offered a thrilling experience that brings together sport, participation, and fun. The success of this edition demonstrates how sailing can create a positive and lasting impact, drawing thousands of people from Italy and abroad to Trieste and its Gulf to celebrate a true festival of the sea. Generali, which has stood by its side for over forty years, congratulates skipper Giulia Ascione, helmswoman Marta Benussi, and the mixed crew of Marta 07 for winning the Generali Women in Sailing Trophy. Initiatives like the Women in Sailing project by Generali and Barcolana, aimed at promoting mix gender sailing among young people, strengthen our commitment to a fairer society, where talent and passion are given space and voice. To all those who made this extraordinary event possible - first and foremost Barcolana - we extend our heartfelt thanks."
Generali’s initiatives for Barcolana 57
Generali promotes a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. Sport is a powerful tool for education and for fostering physical and mental well-being, contributing to both individual development and collective growth. In line with these values, Generali is committed to concrete actions such as the Generali Women in Sailing Trophy and new resources to support sailing clubs, athletes, and coaches.
Women in Sailing by Generali
Now in its fifth edition, the Generali - Women in Sailing Trophy is awarded to the first mixed team led by a woman in a leadership role. This initiative highlights the contribution of all women involved in the event - at sea, on land and behind the scenes.
The winner is rewarded not only with the glass trophy made by Barovier but also with a personalised coaching and leadership programme delivered by Generali Academy.
Again this year, Friday at Barcolana was dedicated to "Women in Sailing" at sea: a day that combined awareness-raising activities on land with a professional regatta held on October 10th as part of Generali’s ongoing support for the event.
The Human Safety Net at the heart of Barcolana Village
Inclusion and community were central to the activities hosted in Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia by The Human Safety Net, Generali’s Foundation supporting vulnerable families with young children and promote refugee inclusion through work and entrepreneurship. Workshops were organised in collaboration with the Centre for Child Health (Centro per la Salute delle Bambine e dei Bambini / CSB), with the active participation of Generali volunteers.
Sport and sailing for inclusion
Generali and Barcolana, a partnership of over 40 years
Barcolana is a historic international sailing regatta held annually on the second Sunday of October in the Gulf of Trieste. Unlike other international competitions, Barcolana was designed to welcome everyone: professional and amateurs sailing side by side on the starting line.
Generali, presenting sponsor of Barcolana for over 40 years, shares the event’s commitment to promoting a culture of team sports, environmental sustainability, integration and inclusion – with a particular focus on gender equality.
Sailing therapy with Unounocinque Sailing Team and AIL Napoli
Generali’s long-standing support for Barcolana reflects a deep belief in the power of sport as a driver of inclusion, resilience, and personal growth. This commitment extends beyond competitive sailing to therapeutic and educational initiatives that use the sea as a space for healing and empowerment.
One of the most meaningful expressions of this vision is the sailing therapy project supported by Generali since 2018: in partnership with Unounocinque Sailing Team and AIL Napoli (Italian Association Against Leukemia), the initiative is dedicated to patients with hematological and oncological conditions. Sailing therapy - now recognized by the medical and scientific community - offers physical, psychological, and social benefits through the marine environment and sailing activity. For patients in remission or stabilization, it promotes emotional well-being, boosts self-esteem, and fosters social inclusion.
Unounocinque, a non-profit amateur sports association recognized by CONI, has launched free training courses where participants learn the basics of sailing and take on active roles aboard, becoming full members of the crew. The initiative, which also involves AGOP Campania (Parents’ Association for Pediatric Oncology), has become a valuable resource for families and young patients, with growing participation year after year.
