Spirito di Stella arrives in Miami for the WoW Project

The world tour of “Lo Spirito di Stella” continues its exciting journey, arriving in Miami, where it was welcomed by the Undersecretary of State for Defense, Senator Isabella Rauti, and by the Deputy Chief of Defense Staff, General of the Army Corps Carmine Masiello. This special stage saw the presence of the Italian sailor Andrea Stella, founder of the non-profit organization "Lo Spirito di Stella".

The event is an integral part of the “WoW” – Wheels on Waves – Around The World 2023-2025 project: a world tour aboard a fully accessible catamaran, 18 meters long. This project is dedicated to soldiers and civilians with permanent disabilities caused by service. Regardless of their physical, cognitive or sensorial characteristics, they will have the opportunity to live a unique sea and sailing experience.

The event was attended by American authorities, including the Consul General of Italy in Miami, Michele Mistò, General Maurizio Cantiello, Italian Defense Attaché in Washington, and representatives of US veterans associations. The initiative is supported by the “Lo Spirito di Stella” association, the UNUCI (National Union of Italian Officers on Leave) and US civil and military authorities, together with Italian companies operating in Miami.

Andrea Stella, founder of “Lo Spirito di Stella”, shares his emotion for the project: “I am very happy for this project, personally it is the realization of a great dream. Today, 20 years later, I return to my origins and relive indescribable emotions."

“Lo Spirito di Stella” was designed to guarantee inclusion and accessibility for people with disabilities. The Italian Armed Forces participate with athletes from the Paralympic Defense Sports Group, allowing them to enjoy a one-of-a-kind sea and sailing experience.

The project was strongly supported by the Minister of Defense, Guido Crosetto, and obtained the moral patronage of CONI and CIP (Italian Paralympic Committee). Thanks to the collaboration of the sponsors, "Lo Spirito di Stella" continues its journey after stops in Genoa, Malaga, Tenerife and Saint Marten.

The catamaran, which sails in the company of the training ship "Amerigo Vespucci", is expected in Darwin, Australia, in October 2024, and then continues together towards the return to Italy in the spring of 2025.

Present on this stage were: the Commander of the vessel Daniel Valli and the sailor Matteo Rapposelli, the operator of the “On Air” Communication Agency Carlo Concina; Marshal Gaetano Minardi, skipper of the Navy; the Chief of the 2nd Class - of the GSPD (Paralympic Defense Sports Group), the former Petty Officer of the San Marco Marine Brigade, Andrea Quarta, physically disabled, with his companion, Chief of the 2nd Class Donato Giurgola, the National President of the Class Hansa, Carmelo Forastieri, also physically disabled with Gianluca Beretta, his companion.