This morning's Ardia was also masterfully led by sa prima pandela Danilo Pes, assisted by sas pandeleddas Matteo Falchi and Andrea Mureddu. The race, which unites faith and tradition, once again confirmed the value of the Sedilese's most cherished festival, attracting thousands of people and transforming the sanctuary of San Costantino into a place of intense popular participation.

The end of the event, however, was marred by an accident during the procession's return to the village. Shortly after leaving the sanctuary, while the marching band, riflemen, Mayor Salvatore Pes, and parish priest Don Maurizio Demartis were proceeding on horseback, the horse ridden by the priest made a sudden and abrupt movement. Don Maurizio, 43, fell to the ground on a steep section of the route, much to the shock of those present. "It was just a moment; we weren't expecting it," some witnesses said. The priest was immediately treated by paramedics on duty, who diagnosed him with facial trauma and a sprained right ankle. He was taken to the San Martino Hospital in Oristano, where his condition is not worrying, but he and all those who witnessed the accident were extremely frightened.

Shortly before, Father Maurizio had presided over the thanksgiving concelebration in the sanctuary, acknowledging everyone's commitment: "Thanks to the flags and knights, to the Council of San Costantino and the prioress, to the Santu Antinu association, to the municipal administration, and to all the volunteers. This year too," the priest emphasized, "Sedilo has demonstrated a community welcoming in the faith. San Costantino, returning to our homes, will guide us on the path of our lives."

Due to the after-effects of the accident, the priest was unable to attend vespers and the procession with the three flags this evening. The rites were officiated by Sedilese priest Father Giancarlo Norio, but everyone warmly gathered around Father Maurizio. Mayor Pes expressed his sympathy to the parish priest, while at the end of the Ardia he emphasized the quality of the race: "Danilo, Matteo, and Andrea ran a perfect Ardia, honoring the saint and representing the entire town in the best possible way."

As soon as he dismounted, the race leader dedicated the race to those who had passed away prematurely. "We also dedicate it to those who are no longer with us today and who would have loved to participate," he remembered Marco Mureddu, vice president of the Santu Antinu association, and Mario Melosu, president of the Riflemen, both of whom passed away in recent months. Civil Protection Director Marco Cuscusa expressed his satisfaction with the safety measures. "Everyone gave their invaluable contribution, and I feel compelled to thank each and every one of them."

Sedilese healthcare workers Marco Mocci and Salvatorangela Atzas instead highlighted the work done by all their colleagues. "We thank all the medical and nursing staff, the volunteers from various countries, and the voluntary associations for their availability and the service they provided to ensure the safe and successful implementation of the Ardia."

All eyes are now on the Ardia on Foot, scheduled for Sunday, July 19th, which will be led by Davide Muscau, appointed by Don Maurizio. The 2026 Ardia will be remembered for its composure, order, and participation, but above all for the strength of a community that, even in difficult times, unites and gives its best.

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