Regional titles in Taranto, international spotlight on Italian athletes from Apulia
Apulian athletes shine on the international stage
Over the past week, Puglia proudly wore the blue jersey, sending some of its best athletes to two major international events: the World Relays in China and the European Racewalking Team Championships in the Czech Republic.
Lapo Bianciardi from Barletta, named “Apulian Athlete of the Year 2024”, competed in the 4x400m relay at the World Relays in Guangzhou, securing qualification for the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo with teammates Lorenzo Benati, Francesco Rossi, and Matteo Raimondi.
Five Apulians called up for European Racewalking Championships
On Sunday, May 18, the streets of Poděbrady, Czech Republic, will host the European Racewalking Team Championships, featuring five Apulian athletes wearing the Italian jersey.
Leading the way is Tokyo 2021 Olympic champion Massimo Stano, racing the 35 km. On the 20 km course returns Francesco Fortunato, who won the event here in 2023 and shined this year in the 5000m indoor season.
Among the debutants, Nicola Lomuscio (born in 2003) takes the spotlight after winning the Italian Clubs Championship in Molfetta last weekend.
The women’s side features Antonella Palmisano, Olympic gold medalist in Tokyo and European champion in Rome 2024, making her debut on the 35 km course.
Among the U20 men, Giuseppe Disabato, bronze medalist at the World Championships and new holder of two national junior records, will compete in the 10 km race.
All eyes on Taranto for the Multiple Event Championships
On May 17–18, Taranto hosts the Apulian regional individual championships in combined events for the Allievi, Juniors, U23, and Absolute categories.
This year sees the historic debut of youth titles in Octathlon (Cadetti) and Hexathlon (Cadette).
More than 100 athletes are expected to compete in a packed weekend that includes additional races for both youth and senior categories. Taranto confirms itself as the beating heart of the Apulian athletics scene.
Faq
Who is Lapo Bianciardi?
He is a sprinter from Avis Barletta who competed in the World Relays 2025 and qualified for the World Championships in Tokyo.
Where are the European Racewalking Championships being held?
In Poděbrady, Czech Republic, on Sunday, May 18.
How many Apulian athletes are on the Italian team?
Five: Massimo Stano, Francesco Fortunato, Antonella Palmisano, Nicola Lomuscio, and Giuseppe Disabato.
What event is Massimo Stano competing in?
He will race in the 35 km walk.
Who are the other Italian team members from Puglia?
Palmisano, Fortunato, Disabato, and Lomuscio.
What is happening in Taranto on May 17–18?
The Apulian Regional Championships in combined events and youth competitions in Octathlon and Hexathlon.
What are Octathlon and Hexathlon?
Youth combined events with 8 (Cadetti) and 6 (Cadette) disciplines respectively.
How many athletes will compete in Taranto?
More than 100 are expected across all categories.
Who is Giuseppe Disabato?
A U20 racewalker with the Fiamme Gialle, bronze world medalist, and double national record holder.
What is the Barletta Athletics Gala?
An annual event celebrating the top athletes from Puglia.
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