Celebrating 50 Years of Tradition, Voltaia’s Attilio Niola Secures Another Thrilling Win in Tuscany’s Unique Competition
MONTEPULCIANO – The ancient streets of Montepulciano, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Tuscany, once again echoed with excitement and anticipation as the 2024 edition of the Bravìo delle Botti unfolded last weekend. This unique event, where competitors roll heavy wine barrels through the narrow, sloping streets, has become a defining feature of the town, which is renowned globally for its production of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
Montepulciano’s history of competitive races stretches back to the late 14th century, with records documenting intense horse races between the town’s eight rival districts, known as contrade. These races, filled with local pride and rivalry, were an integral part of the town’s identity. However, in 1974, a significant change was introduced that would alter the course of this historic competition. It was then that Don Marcello del Balio, the parish priest, proposed replacing the horses and riders with men rolling large, empty oak barrels. This suggestion gave birth to the modern Bravìo delle Botti, a race that has since become a cherished tradition in Montepulciano.
The 2024 edition marked a particularly special occasion as it celebrated the 50th anniversary of the modern barrel race. The festivities began on 17 August with the traditional Proclamation of the Gonfaloniere, signaling the official start of the competition between the town’s contrade. Throughout the week, Montepulciano was alive with vibrant processions, where participants donned medieval costumes and carried banners, flaming torches lighting up the historic town in a dazzling display of community spirit and tradition.
The climax of the week was, of course, the Bravìo delle Botti race itself. In this grueling competition, two athletes from each district push an 80-kilogram barrel uphill for 1.8 kilometers, starting from the Colonna del Marzocco and ending at the iconic Piazza Grande. The race is as much a test of endurance and strength as it is a display of teamwork and strategy.
This year, the race was particularly thrilling. Attilio Niola, a name synonymous with success in the Bravìo delle Botti, once again demonstrated his prowess. Racing for the district of Voltaia, Niola and his partner, Lorenzo Leonardi, set off with determination. However, the race took an unexpected turn when Leonardi crashed out, leaving Niola to push the barrel solo to the finish line. Despite this setback, Niola crossed the finish line triumphantly, securing victory for Voltaia.
Niola’s victory in 2024 adds to his impressive record in the Bravìo delle Botti. He has now won the race for Voltaia in 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2023, and 2024, making him one of the most successful rollers in the history of the competition. His loyalty to Voltaia, unlike many participants who have switched districts over the years, has made him a local legend. Niola’s achievement places him alongside the greats of the sport, such as Giovanni Zorn, Enzo Moretti, and Stefano Rocchini.
With this victory, Voltaia retains the highly coveted prize: a beautifully crafted banner depicting St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of Montepulciano, whose feast day, marking his beheading, is celebrated on 29 August. This victory also holds historical significance for Voltaia, which won its first Bravìo delle Botti in 1996.
As the celebrations continue and the barrels are stored away until next year, the 2024 edition of the Bravìo delle Botti will be remembered as a remarkable chapter in Montepulciano’s ongoing story. It is a celebration of tradition, community, and the enduring spirit of competition that has defined this Tuscan town for centuries.
