Valdimontone Claims Victory in Thrilling Palio di Siena Race
Siena: The Valdimontone contrada emerged victorious in the Palio di Siena on Saturday night, with veteran jockey Giuseppe Zedde, known as Gingillo, leading from start to finish on bay gelding Anda e Bola in the renowned medieval bareback horse race. This win marks Valdimontone’s first victory in 13 years and ends a seven-year winless streak for Gingillo.
According to Ansa News Agency, the event was the second Palio of the year, coinciding with the August 15 Feast of the Assumption of the Madonna into Heaven. Among the spectators was US pop star Madonna, who cheered the winner from a vantage point overlooking the square. The first Palio of the year was won by the Oca (Goose) contrada at the start of last month.
Veteran jockey Giovanni Atzeni, also known as Tittia, rode chestnut debutant Diodoro to a commanding victory, leading from start to finish during the intense 90-minute race. Tittia’s triumph marks his 11th win out of 40 Palios raced, bringing him closer to the all-time record of 14 victories held by local legend Andrea de Gortes, known as Aceto.
The race, which was delayed from its original date of July 2 due to a rainstorm that rendered the track impassable, is one of Italy’s most vibrant tourist attractions. Although it draws large crowds, many newcomers are often taken aback by its violent nature and the deep-seated rivalries it incites. The event is notorious for the negotiations and tactics among jockeys as they prepare for the race.
The first Palio of the year nearly saw chaos due to pre-race jostling, which led the ‘mossiere’, or starter, to call back the mounts four times. However, Tittia’s strategic ride ensured a smooth race, avoiding major incidents. The Palio di Siena, which gained cinematic fame in the 2007 James Bond film Quantum of Solace, is held annually on July 2 and August 16, with an occasional extra race in September.
Ten contrade, or neighborhoods, participate in the race, competing for the coveted silk prize in a rapid dash around the Piazza del Campo. The jockeys, or fantini, have few restrictions, with the primary rule being that they must not grab their opponents’ reins. This allows for aggressive tactics, such as whipping a rival’s horse or knocking a jockey off his mount.
Despite its popularity, the race faces criticism from animal rights activists who argue it is cruel and dangerous for all involved. Since 1970, more than 50 horses have died on the course, prompting calls for the event to be banned due to its perceived lack of sporting skill and high risk to horses, jockeys, and spectators.