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The 62nd Emilio Benetti International Trophy, an ISCYRA Historical Event, concluded successfully in the waters off Viareggio, home to one of the world's most important Star fleets and widely regarded as one of the finest Star Class racecourses, set against the spectacular backdrop of the Apuan Alps. The prestigious regatta was organized by Società Velica Viareggina and Club Nautico Versilia, under the authority of the Italian Sailing Federation (FIV), in collaboration with the Viareggio section of the Italian Naval League, with support from the Viareggio Harbor Master's Office and Telemar Yachting Italy.

With three victories in the five races sailed over three days of competition, Enrico Chieffi, sailing this time with Manlio Corsi aboard ITA 8563 Clan (SVV), claimed the top step of the podium with an impressive scoreline of 3,1,4,1,1 for 6 points overall. For Chieffi, it was a remarkable ninth victory in the prestigious Benetti Trophy, establishing an all-time record in the history of the event.

Second place went to Brazilian sailing legend Bruno Prada, a two-time Olympic medalist, sailing with his cousin Fabio Prada aboard BRA 8603 (8 points), while third place was secured by five-time Benetti Trophy winner Giampiero Poggi and local sailor Davide Mugnaini aboard ITA 8578 SevenStars (10 points).

Just outside the podium were Vincenzo Locatelli and Daniele Bresciano in fourth, followed by local favorites Marco Viti and Alessandro Cattaneo in fifth.

During the prize-giving ceremony at Club Nautico Versilia, organizers recalled the rich history of the Benetti Trophy, originally established in the 1960s by Maurizio Benetti in memory of his father Emilio Benetti, one of the most influential figures in Viareggio's maritime heritage and a key member of the renowned Benetti shipbuilding family. Thanks to ISCYRA, the event first gained Classic status and later Historic Event recognition, further cementing its international significance.

Special awards were also presented to the winners of each race day (Locatelli/Bresciano, Poggi/Mugnaini, and Chieffi/Corsi), as well as to the top Master skipper (Bruno Prada), Grand Master (Enrico Chieffi), Exalted sailor (Guido Falciola), first Lady (Cecilia Pagni), and first Under 30 sailor (Claudio Parboni), reflecting the ongoing commitment of Società Velica Viareggina to promoting the Star Class among younger generations.

“It was three days of intense, enjoyable and highly technical racing,” said Silvio Dell’Innocenti, Star Class Assistant. “The weather was excellent, the wind ideal for the Star Class, and the conditions produced close and exciting racing with a great battle for the top positions. There was plenty of competition on the water, but also wonderful moments of friendship and relaxation ashore. The Star Class is always special: beautiful boats, high-level crews, and excellent sailors. Congratulations to everyone.”

Local sailors Marco Viti and Alessandro Cattaneo also claimed the 2026 Andrea Bandoni Perpetual Trophy, awarded to the highest-placed crew in the overall standings fully affiliated with the Viareggio Star Fleet through either Società Velica Viareggina or Club Nautico Versilia.