Fassonis: History Relives in the Lagoon at Santa Giusta

Some followed in their father's footsteps, others in their grandfather's. But also some started out just for fun a few years ago. Last night, a two-hour show unfolded before everyone: a game of strength, balance, skill, and a wealth of emotion. Because in these parts, competing in the water is a year-round event. The Santa Giusta lagoon hosted the 45th edition of the Regatta de is Fassonis, organized by the Is Fassoneris association, the Municipality, and the Pro Loco. Once again, the rowers did not disappoint their audience: despite the scorching sun, many Santa Giusta residents faithful to tradition and numerous tourists came to see them. The most applauded? The village's children, the future of tradition.

The demonstration

The lagoon provided a glimpse of what happened many years ago, when the village's fishermen spent hours aboard those reed boats. It was a way to remember their origins, but also to share local traditions with tourists vacationing in the Oristano area. The show began at 5:30 p.m. It wasn't held in the morning like it used to, but rather a way for the organizers to attract more tourists: and so it proved.

The race

First came the rowing race. The 14 rowers, proud of their role and dressed in their traditional white linen suits, rowed about 600 meters. This time, the podium was a family affair. The fastest was Davide Pili. He was given a huge celebration and many souvenir photos. Second place went to Matteo Pili, Davide's cousin, and third place went to Marco Pili, Davide's father. A picture worthy of a frame. Then came the race: still rowing, but for the boys. This was the finishing order: Angelo Pani, Chiara Pili, Silvia Statzu, Riccardo Pisoni, Gabriele Ardu, and Gabriele Cadoni. They are the future of the regatta. And then came the rowing challenge, more spectacular: the rowers rowed along the lagoon's shores, dipping a long stick made of three wrapped reeds. Marco Pili was the fastest, followed by Antonio Putzu, and third place by Matteo Pili.

The children

Yesterday, there was also much applause for the children who participated in the fassonis boat-handling workshops in recent months. Proud and excited, they showed off what they'd learned from the veterans. On Saturday, however, there was a return to the past on the water. The competitors competed aboard the cius, the small wooden boats once used by fishermen. Among the adults, the fastest was Matteo Pili, followed by Mauro Pili and Antonio Putzu. Among the children, the podium went to Riccardo Pisoni. After the races, grilled fish was served for everyone, accompanied by music by Tazenda. And everyone is already looking forward to the next race.

Sara Pinna