Nuotiamo nell'Oasi 2025

The morning of Nuotiamo nell'Oasi begins with the familiar bustle of the Abbracciamoli APS community, where the seaside atmosphere of Trieste blends with a shared sense of purpose. Swimmers gather along the waterfront, many returning year after year to support the event’s mission of aiding those affected by leukemia-related pathologies. This gathering is a reflection of the city itself: a place where the maritime heritage is deeply tied to the rhythms of the gulf.

The waters of the Gulf

As you enter the water, you are navigating the Gulf of Trieste, a basin characterized by a subtle, counterclockwise current that typically moves at about 0.8 knots. While tides here are among the most significant in the Adriatic, they rarely exceed 60 centimeters, providing a steady environment for the 3500m and 9000m courses. The water salinity, usually hovering between 37‰ and 38‰, can dip during the summer months due to freshwater influx, a nuance that regular open water swimmers often note. While the formidable Bora wind can occasionally churn these waters with gusts reaching up to 50 knots, the race day is carefully managed to ensure safety. The course itself is a journey through history; for instance, the 9000m route begins near the OGS and passes the Miramare Castle, allowing participants to observe the striking architecture from a unique perspective.

Historical landmarks in the swim

Throughout the swim, you are never far from the legacy of this port city. Near the old city waterfront, you can spot the Arco di Riccardo, a 7.2-meter triumphal arch from 33–32 BC that once served as an ancient city gate. Folk tales often link the name to Richard the Lionheart’s presence in the 1190s, though it is more likely a linguistic shift from 'Arco del Cardo'. Further along the coastline, the seabed and shore hide the remains of Roman villas, where ancient piers and thermal facilities once stood. Your line of sight is dominated by the Victory Lighthouse, a 70-meter monument built during the 1920s that acts as a beacon for the entire gulf. While other landmarks like the expansive Piazza Unità d'Italia and the historic Molo Audace define the city skyline, the swimmers find their own rhythm between these coastal markers. This event continues the tradition of elite swimming in the area, reminiscent of the 2005 world record set by Markus Rogan, though the focus here remains on the personal challenge and community solidarity.