Who is Valentina Petrillo? All about the Italian sprinter set to become the first transgender athlete to compete at Paralympic Games

Valentina Petrillo: Pioneering Transgender Paralympian Set for Paris 2024

Valentina Petrillo, an accomplished Italian transgender Paralympic track and field athlete, is set to make history by becoming the first transgender athlete to compete in any event at the Paralympic Games. Specializing in the 200m and 400m events, she has been named to the Italian squad for the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, marking a significant milestone in both her career and the broader sports world.

### A Journey of Resilience and Determination

Born in Naples, Italy, on October 2, 1973, Valentina Petrillo’s life has been a testament to overcoming adversity. At the age of 14, she was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a degenerative eye condition that led to the loss of her eyesight. Despite this significant challenge, Petrillo did not let her visual impairment define her ambitions.

Petrillo’s academic journey took her to Bologna, where she pursued computer science at Francesco Cavazza. During this time, she also began to cultivate her passion for athletics, training primarily at the Gnaro Jet Mattei and PAT Association. Although her formal education was in technology, her heart was always in sports.

### Athletic Career: From Futsal to Track and Field

Over the span of more than two decades, Petrillo explored a variety of sports. In her youth, she joined Italy’s national futsal team for visually impaired athletes and played for various teams, including Omero-Bergomo. However, her true calling was in athletics, a passion ignited by Italian sprinter Pietro Mennea’s inspiring 200m victory at the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow.

Before transitioning to compete in the women’s category in 2019, Petrillo had already made a name for herself in the men’s category, securing 11 national titles. Her transition marked a new chapter in her career, and she quickly established herself as a formidable competitor in women’s para athletics.

### Road to Paris 2024

Petrillo’s selection for the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris came on the heels of her remarkable performance at the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships, where she won two bronze medals in the women’s 200m and 400m events. These achievements solidified her status as one of Italy’s top Paralympic athletes and earned her a place in the upcoming Games.

Reflecting on her journey, Petrillo shared her emotions in an interview with NBC: “I still find it hard to believe it, and I’m keeping my feet on the ground because my chance to participate in Tokyo was missed by a whisker. I will only start thinking about the Paris Games once I arrive in France.”

In addition to her bronze medals, Petrillo also holds the national record in the women’s Paralympic T13 class 400-meter event, further showcasing her extraordinary talent and dedication.

### A Symbol of Progress and Inclusion

As Petrillo prepares to compete in Paris, her journey stands as a symbol of progress and inclusion in the world of sports. Her presence at the Paralympic Games not only breaks barriers but also inspires countless others to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.

Valentina Petrillo’s story is one of resilience, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to her passion for athletics. As she gears up for the 2024 Paralympic Games, the world will be watching as she continues to defy expectations and make history.