After dressing up for the Monte-Carlo Television Festival on Tuesday, a much more informal appointment was now on the agenda: Charlène of Monaco (48) paid a visit to the Italian town of Viareggio. As the Italian daily newspaper "La Nazione" reports, the member of the Monegasque princely family appeared on Wednesday on the Tuscan coast and mingled with beachgoers.
Charlène was received by the city's mayor, Sara Grilli. The occasion for the visit was a side event at Bagno Flora on the beach promenade. It was organized by the municipality. Numerous students from Viareggio participated, and the Red Cross and Coast Guard were also involved.
Big Kickoff on Friday
However, the actual highlight is still to come. On Friday and Saturday, the charity event "The Crossing" will take place - and according to "La Nazione", Prince Albert II (68) is also expected at the coast. The international initiative, supported by the Princess's foundation (Fondation Princesse Charlène de Monaco), combines sports with social commitment.
This year's program features a special route: from the yacht club in Viareggio, it covers approximately 225 kilometers across the Mediterranean to Larvotto Beach in Monaco - on so-called water bikes. Teams of four athletes each will start on Friday, June 19. Arrival in the principality is scheduled for Saturday, June 20.
For Greater Safety in the Water
Behind this athletic feat lies a serious concern. With the race, the foundation aims to draw attention to its work - including swimming lessons, ocean rescue, and the prevention of drowning accidents. According to the organizers, the Fondation Princesse Charlène de Monaco is committed worldwide to protecting people from drowning and promoting water safety.
According to the official event website, the Princess's foundation and the Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco are joining forces for the event - with the stated goal of combining athletic commitment with ocean protection. For the current edition, according to the official event website, seven teams have been formed. So far, donations of around 14,000 euros have been collected, with the target goal being 100,000 euros.
Princess Charlène of Monaco attended the closing ceremony of the 65th edition of the Monte-Carlo Television Festival on Tuesday together with her husband. In a long, glittering evening gown, she posed for photographers with Kurt Russell (75), among others. She presented the Hollywood star with the "Crystal Nymph Award" from the Monte-Carlo Television Festival.
