A tree trunk is bolted to the quay of the old marina, stretching horizontally over the water and coated with animal fat and soap. From its far end hangs a small coloured flag: the challenge is to reach it without slipping. Most contestants end up in the sea, which is half the fun for the crowd packed around the little harbour.
For generations the contest was the preserve of the town's fishermen, young and old; these days anyone can try. It takes place on the afternoon of 6 August as the finale of the SS. Salvatore festivities, and the 2026 summer programme confirmed it once again at the Vecchia Marina.
