The first edition of the “Golden Delphis Award for Sport” took place at the elevated car park of the “Porte dello Jonio” shopping center, managed by Nhood, attracting the attention of 40 local sports associations and over 1,200 athletes, managers , coaches and families. The event, sponsored by CONI and with the presence of the Provincial Delegate Michelangelo Giusti, represented a significant celebration of local sport. During the ceremony, several companies and entities, including McDonald’s and Decathlon, supported the initiative with donations and prizes. Media partners Radio Cittadella and TST contributed to coverage of the event.
The opening of the event was characterized by the passing of the 40 sports clubs, followed by the awards ceremony conducted by the journalist Matteo Schinaia. Institutional comments were provided by figures such as Mauro Tatulli, Director of the Shopping Centre, and Gianni Azzaro, deputy mayor and councilor for Sport, who underlined the importance of the initiative for the social and sporting fabric of the region.
Fabio Tagarelli, president of Taranto 25, described the award as a recognition of sporting excellence and the athletes’ contribution to the community. During the event, several personalities received special recognitions, including Mauro Tatulli, named “honorary member” of Taranto 25.
Vittorio Pollazon, president of the Jonian Dolphin Conservation, explained that the award takes its name from Delphinus delphis, a symbol of rarity and beauty. An emotional moment was the testimony of Marco D’Aniello, record holder in the Junior 50 meters freestyle category, who shared his successful journey. Marcello De Pace, director of Taranto 25, illustrated the selection criteria for the winners, emphasizing values such as resilience and social commitment.
The awarded athletes were recognized for their sporting spirit and dedication, with special prizes presented to figures such as Marco Loperfido, winner of the “Leonida Prize”, and Marina Baso, awarded for her outstanding career in swimming. Other athletes such as William Venza and Claudia Lippo have received recognition for their outstanding contributions to sport and the community.
