The international sailing community mourns the loss of Carlo Borlenghi, a photographer whose work defined the visual history of yacht racing for over four decades. Borlenghi started his career shooting local regattas before gaining global attention through his work with Uomo Mare Vogue. Since 1983, he was a fixture at the America's Cup, where he captured the intensity and precision of the sport.
Colleagues describe his approach as instinctive. He possessed an ability to anticipate the exact moment pressure shifted on a start line or when a crew member's expression betrayed the outcome of a race. This talent earned him widespread respect, moving his images beyond mere documentation into a form of art that preserved the atmosphere and humanity of sailing.
In 1989, Borlenghi founded the agency Sea&See, which remains an active entity within the Mediatree Group. His contributions to the industry earned him significant recognition, including the Omega Prize for Best Italian Sports Photographer and a commemorative plaque from the President of Italy in 2007. Throughout his career, he served as the official photographer for major events like the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta and the Perini Navi Cup.
Despite his fame, peers remember him for his approachable nature and enthusiasm. He was a constant presence at docks and in media centers, known for his humor and character as much as his technical skill. A funeral service will take place on August 5th at the Church of Saints Nazzaro and Celso in Bellano to honor his life and lasting influence on the sport.