Bari sailing program supports cancer patients and celebrates youth regatta wins

On 16 June, the CUS of Bari launched 21 boats as part of the ‘Sognando Itaca’ velotherapy project, offering several hours of sailing to about a hundred blood‑cancer patients, their families and healthcare professionals. The initiative, coordinated by the Italian Leukemia‑Lymphoma Association (AIL), follows a tour that began in Venice on 8 June and will conclude in Brindisi, aiming to improve patients’ psychological wellbeing through sport.

In parallel, the Circolo della Vela Bari achieved notable results in national youth sailing competitions. At the 29er National Regatta in Marina di Carrara, brothers Luca and Fabio Ottolino secured first place in the Under‑17 category and ranked 11th overall. In the Optimist zonal championship at Santa Caterina di Nardò, Bari sailors Marco De Nicolò, Matteo D’Addabbo and Federica Cantoro swept the Division A podium, while other team members earned top‑ten finishes. Coaches praised the athletes’ technical growth and teamwork.

Both events highlight Bari’s active role in promoting sailing as a tool for health and athletic development.