First Woman in History Joins Garda Bisse Rowing Crew

A blow to prejudices and the full inclusion of women in the Garda rowing tradition.

First Woman in the History of the Bisse

Breaking through the threshold of a sport traditionally considered male-dominated was Claudia Todesco, who last Sunday on Lake Sebino competed as the first woman in the history of the bisse, as a member of the Lacisium crew alongside three men. Was her presence challenging? “Not at all,” admits the 32-year-old with flowing jet-black hair, arriving punctually to training and part of the Olimpia bisse group.

“I find myself in a very tight-knit team,” clarifies Claudia, who works as a travel agent, “and I’m not the only woman with a passion for Venetian rowing. It’s a hobby I developed by following races and practicing almost as a game, motivated by the discussions that always arose after competitions within my family.”