The Venetian Regatta

Mario is a poor boy in sixteenth century Venice, who ferries passengers in his gondolini. His mother is ill and his father is away on an expedition. A famous doctor is visiting Venice, but Mario does not have the money to pay him to treat his mother. When Mario hears about the Regatta and the prize money of a thousand gold pieces, he decides to take part in it. Paolo had won the race previous year, realizes that Mario is a strong competitor and decides to cheat to win. As a result, Paolo wins the Regatta and Mario comes in second. Just as the Doge awards the prize money, the truth is revealed and Mario wins.