Diving for Gino: Removing Treble Nets in Sicily to Protect Marine Life

In memory of professional cyclist Gino Mäder, whose values of fairness, responsibility, and care for the planet continue to inspire many, the #rideforGino association supports projects that protect nature and promote sustainability. Through their donation, Healthy Seas was able to organise a focused diving mission in Sicily — transforming Gino’s commitment into meaningful action beneath the waves.

Over two days, five volunteer divers carried out four dives across the coastal areas of Fontane Bianche and Ognina, two locations heavily affected by abandoned fishing gear. The team recovered four fishing nets, totalling 450 metres in length and around 200 Kg, significantly reducing entanglement risks for marine life and improving the health of these coastal habitats. During the operation, the divers also rescued a fish that had become trapped in the net, carefully cutting the strands to free it without causing harm — a small but powerful reminder of why these missions matter.

The #rideforGino association was created to continue the causes closest to Gino’s heart. Beyond supporting environmental projects, the organisation aims to uphold and share the values he stood for: compassion, fairness, and responsibility — in sport and in life. By making this mission possible, they have helped restore and protect the underwater world while ensuring that Gino’s passion for a better planet continues to make a positive difference.

Healthy Seas is proud to partner with #rideforGino in honouring Gino’s legacy through concrete action, proving how even small, targeted interventions can create lasting impact for marine ecosystems.