Paolo Vitelli, the founder and president of Azimut Benetti Group, the world’s leading producer of luxury motor yachts, has been presented with the “Carlo Riva” award, named in memory of the boat industry icon who died last April 10, 2017.
The recognition, which celebrates Paolo Vitelli’s contribution to the international boat industry and the prestige of the group he founded, was presented during Versilia Yachting Rendez-Vous, the new event that focuses on the high end of the boat industry, held in Viareggio (Tuscany) from May 11 to 14, 2017. The ceremony was hosted by Natasha Stefanenko, with Lia and Pia Riva, NAUTICA ITALIANA president Lamberto Tacoli, Fondazione Altagamma president Andrea Illy, and Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi.
“Being chosen by my fellow businessmen makes me particularly proud,” said an emotional Paolo Vitelli during the ceremony. “Life is a challenge that needs to be approached with gusto, passion and, if possible, fun. I’d therefore like to invite young people to seize this challenge with courage, investment and, nowadays, a touch of healthy craziness too. I’m sure that they’ll enjoy the satisfaction of living a life of building and creating, for themselves and for Italy. And that they’ll have fun”.
The Carlo Riva Award, presented for the first time this year, will be given annually to a leading figure who has made an important contribution over the years to the international boat industry.
