Youth Archery Stars Shine at Castello Carrarese: Veneto’s Road to the Trofeo Pinocchio National Finals

The historic walls of the Castello Carrarese in Este provided a dramatic backdrop this month as the region’s finest young archers gathered for the Finale Regionale Estiva del Trofeo Pinocchio 2026. In a display of precision and poise, the event served as more than just a competition; it was a critical qualifying gateway for the Veneto regional team as they prepare to defend their national title.

Organized by the Arcieri Niche and sanctioned by the Federazione Italiana Tiro con l’Arco (FITARCO), the tournament took place at the ex Foro Boario within the castle grounds. For those unfamiliar with the geography, Este is a town in the province of Padua, located in the Veneto region of northeast Italy—an area renowned not only for its art and history but for a deeply rooted sporting culture.

Precision Under Pressure: The Standout Performances

While the event showcased talent from across the territory, the athletes from Arcieri delle Due Tigri of Villadose stole the spotlight. Competing under a bright May sun, the Villadose squad demonstrated why they are currently one of the most formidable youth programs in the region.

Diego Ferracin delivered a masterclass in the Ragazzi 2014 category, securing a first-place finish. This victory is particularly significant as it marks the second consecutive year Ferracin has earned a spot on the Veneto regional representative team, cementing his status as a rising star in Italian youth archery.

Joining him on the podium was Giacomo Neodo, who claimed second place in the Ragazzi 2013 class. For Neodo, this result represents a breakthrough year, reflecting a steep trajectory of technical growth and mental toughness over the last twelve months.

The depth of the Villadose talent pool was further evidenced by Andrea Mazzuccato, who finished a strong fourth in the Ragazzi 2014 category, and Emanuel Zanardi, who made his debut on the shooting line in the Giovanissimi category, finishing 15th.

The Stakes: The Journey to Terni

In the world of youth archery, the Trofeo Pinocchio is far more than a trophy; We see the primary engine for talent identification in Italy. The regional finals are the “do or die” moment for athletes hoping to wear the regional colors on the national stage.

By securing podium finishes, Ferracin and Neodo have officially punched their tickets to the national phase of the Trofeo Pinocchio. This prestigious event will take place in Terni during the month of June.

The pressure on the incoming Veneto squad will be immense. They aren’t just traveling to Terni to compete; they are traveling to defend the title of Italian Champion, a crown they successfully captured last year. For the young archers, the transition from the quiet discipline of the Castello Carrarese to the high-stakes atmosphere of a national final is the ultimate test of their development.

More Than a Game: Archery’s Role in Youth Development

FITARCO has long viewed the Trofeo Pinocchio as a vehicle for growth. Beyond the scores and the rankings, the event emphasizes “crescita e condivisione”—growth and sharing—within the archery movement. By hosting events in culturally significant locations like the Castello Carrarese, the sport integrates athletic excellence with a sense of regional identity.

For a global audience, it is helpful to understand that archery in Italy is often a family-centric sport, where local clubs (società) act as community hubs. The success of the Villadose athletes is a testament to the grassroots infrastructure that allows a small town to produce athletes capable of competing at a national level.

What to Watch for in June

As the Veneto team prepares for Terni, analysts and fans will be looking at how the newcomers integrate with the returning champions. The synergy between the experienced veterans and the fresh energy of qualifiers like Neodo will be the deciding factor in whether Veneto can maintain its dominance.

The national finals will test the archers’ ability to handle wind conditions, crowd noise, and the psychological weight of being the hunted team. If Ferracin and Neodo can replicate their Castello Carrarese form, Veneto will be the heavy favorite to retain the gold.

Next Checkpoint: The official roster and schedule for the National Finals in Terni will be released by FITARCO in late May. Stay tuned to Archysport for live updates and athlete profiles as the road to the championship reaches its peak.

Do you think Veneto has the depth to defend their title in Terni? Let us know your predictions in the comments below.