Maria Antonietta Avanzo: Italy's First Female Pilot and Racing Pioneer

Maria Antonietta Avanzo (1889-1977), known as the 'Baronessa volante', was Italy's first female pilot and a pioneering racing driver. Born in Contarina Veneta (Rovigo), she began racing in 1920 with a Spa 35/50 Sport at the Circuito del Lazio. Despite a DNF due to mechanical failure, she placed third at the Coppa d'Inverno in Rocca di Papa. In 1921, her Packard 299 caught fire during speed trials on Fanø Island, Denmark, forcing her to jump into the sea. She finished seventh at the Circuito del Garda, where she met Gabriele D'Annunzio, who nicknamed her 'Nerissa'. D'Annunzio later had her pet turtle's shell turned into an ornament after its death. In 1923, she moved to Australia, winning a charity race in an Essex and earning the nickname 'The Special Queen'. Returning to Italy in 1926, she placed third at the Coppa Perugina. In 1928, she co-drove a Chrysler 70 in the Mille Miglia with Brazilian driver Manuel de Teffé but retired due to mechanical issues. She attempted to build her own car but failed to secure funding. In 1932, she was invited by Raffaele De Palma to test a Miller Special at Indianapolis but did not qualify. Her last notable race was in 1939 from Tobruch to Tripoli, Libya, driving a FIAT 1100 to sixth place. Avanzo is considered a symbol of female emancipation and inspired future generations.