Regatta ESCP: Students from 30 countries gather in Sicily to celebrate sport and sustainability

For the second consecutive year, the event took place in one of the most compelling locations in all of Sicily: the Island of Ortigia in Syracuse. A site renowned for its evocative historical heritage, which over the years has contributed to making it an internationally acclaimed cultural reference point.

"The city was founded by men who came from the sea; from the sea began its economic growth and its expansion into the ancient world; through the sea, it became a synthesis of peoples, cultures, and traditions. This millennial history, which is deeply rooted in the sea and in the activities connected to it, has allowed Syracuse to become one of the most important tourist attractions in Sicily in recent years and the leading player in terms of visitors, with over 1 million overnight stays in 2023. Numbers destined to grow with this year's international events, among which this 16th edition of Regatta ESCP is certainly one," says Francesco Italia, mayor of the Municipality of Syracuse – Ortigia.

In addition to the sporting competition, the four days featured activities based on the founding values of networking, fun, sustainability and education. Reinforcing the theme of entrepreneurship and altruism, an integral part of Regatta ESCP's DNA, speakers included Flavio Nappi, as founder of Regatta ESCP and Mammapack, and Antonio Rancati, the General Coordinator of the CETRI-TIRES European study centre, who also represented Mare D'Amare, a non-profit sports association set up with the aim of raising awareness for environmental protection.

The calendar included three themed evenings, including the traditional closing night Gala, as well as an aperitif dedicated to MBA students and sponsors, aimed at fostering networking and stimulating new professional collaborations.

The throughline of the event was networking, supported by Eventures, ESCP's non-profit student association and the Regatta’s organising team that has seen the number of new members more than triple for this edition, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to making the event an unforgettable experience for sponsors and participants alike. Eventures is indeed a community of students motivated by the goal of enriching the ESCP experience, both in and outside the academic environment.

At a time when environmental awareness is more important than ever, ESCP Regatta is committed to promoting sustainable practices, demonstrating that it is possible to combine fun and a competitive spirit with respect for our planet. Thanks to the partnership with CETRI-TIRES, each crew was assessed on their emissions and their commitment to respecting the sea. This commitment to the planet was also reflected in the choice of sponsors and suppliers who are committed to providing plastic-free and, where possible, locally-sourced products.

Clean-up activities in the Ciane River Nature Reserve and awareness-raising initiatives promoted in collaboration with Legambiente, an Italian environmentalist association, showed the event’s commitment to combining sporting excellence with environmental protection.

The 16th edition of the Regatta ESCP not only showcased passion for sport and educational excellence, but also celebrated the connection to the region and, above all, the commitment to respect for the planet.

"The Regatta is more than just a sporting event: it is about unique educational opportunities, valuable networking possibilities and contributions to the growth of sustainable business. It is the ideal environment to grow as people and professionally, together with others who share the same passion for sailing and a common goal of protecting our seas," says Alessandro Fusaro, ESCP Master in Management student and Project Manager of the event.