On Thursday, October 2nd, at 10:00 a.m., in the reception room of the Palazzo del Marchese, the official headquarters of the Municipality of Porto Torres, Mayor Massimo Mulas will meet with educator and athletic trainer Massimo Carta and his students Daniele Buongiorno and Luca Parodi, ready to tackle the Camino de Santiago de Compostela.
The mayor, in fact, is pleased to wish them all the best, hoping that this experience will be a special opportunity for personal growth, sharing, and socializing. The three Turritani will depart on October 4th for northern Spain to join other pilgrims and undertake the French Way, from Sarria to Santiago: a 114 km route to be completed in four days, averaging 28 km per day.
Daniele Buongiorno, 40, and Luca Parodi, 34, both on the autism spectrum, have been preparing for the challenge since April under the expert guidance of Massimo Carta, who has been coaching them for four years at their "second home," the Porto Torres Tennis Club. Recently, their training has intensified with gym sessions, running, and hiking in the local mountains. They are also joined by Dino Loi, 47, who unfortunately had to cancel his trip at the last minute due to a physical issue.
Massimo Carta explains, "The positive effects of running and exercise on those with autism spectrum disorder are countless. Physical activity reduces hyperactive and stereotyped behaviors, improves social skills, and improves communication. Along the way, the children will have the opportunity to socialize with other pilgrims and enjoy a unique experience of personal enrichment."
Massimo Carta, 57, has once again offered his extensive experience as an athletic trainer, gained not only at the Tennis Club but also by coaching women's volleyball and rugby athletes and numerous young people with disabilities. In the past, he has passionately and determinedly supported athletes with disabilities in national and international marathons and ultramarathons. Above all, he is no stranger to supporting charitable causes away from the spotlight with his Tennis Club team.
