The prize pool is truly tempting: €17,000 (€10,000 for the winner) to entice the best jockeys and the most prestigious stables in Sardinia (even those from northern Italy are expected) to spend the afternoon of Ferragosto at the Guasila racecourse and compete for the victory in the prestigious race dedicated to the patron saint, the Virgin of the Assumption. In addition to the cash prize, the winner will also receive the trophy donated by the Municipality and the pure gold banner, the symbol of the event.
The 38th edition of the Palio di Santa Maria, scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, August 15th, is organized by the Guasilese Equestrian Association in collaboration with the municipal administration, the Union of Municipalities of Trexenta, and the Region. To ensure everyone can reach the racecourse in Villanovafranca safely and safely, the Municipality of Guasila is again offering a free shuttle service this year, departing from Piazza Trexenta at various times: 4:00 PM, 4:30 PM, 5:00 PM, and 5:30 PM. Return to town is guaranteed following the race and awards ceremony. Between the qualifying rounds and the final, the Palio dei Vicinati will take place, a competition between the historic neighborhoods of Guasila. There will be no shortage of special guests: the children of the Giara Oristanese Equestrian Club will perform their thrilling Pariglie (pairs).
The Palio di Guasila, the highlight of the Feast of the Assumption, remains the only equestrian event in Campidano, thanks to the tenacity of the association led by longtime president Carlo Murru. Despite numerous organizational challenges, each year they succeed in maintaining an essential tradition for horse racing fans. "As we do every afternoon on August 15th, our goal is not to disappoint the now very high expectations of the public," says Murru. In the evening, the grand procession in honor of the Blessed Virgin of the Assumption moves to the main square in the town center, where Maria Luisa Congiu will perform at 10:30 PM.
