May 15, 2016 - Venice, Italy: Rowers in gondolas, canoes, kayaks and all other types of row boats take part in the 42nd Venice Vogalonga. The race started between friends on 'mascarete', St. Martin day of 1974. Fans of the Venetian rowing in those years were few, in a world that was increasingly motor driven. In addition to the racers, other friends were involved, including Lauro Bergamo, then editor of Il Gazzettino, Toni Rosa Salva, who was always active in the world of racing, and Joseph Rosa Salva, known for his commitment to the defense of Venice. It was thus that began the idea of holding a non-competitive rowing race, and to invite all the fans and all those who had 'laid the oars' too long to unite against the deterioration of the city and the waves and the restoration of the Venetian tradition. Thousands of tourists line the canals to watch the boats maneuver heavy traffic in the waterways. (Manuuel Silvestri/Polaris) © PHOTO NEWS / PICTURES NOT INCLUDED IN THE CONTRACTS *** local caption *** 05471688