Italian transgender athlete Valentina Petrillo did not qualify for the final of the women’s T12 400 meters for visually impaired runners at the Paralympic Games after finishing third in her semifinal. Despite running a personal best time of 57.58 seconds, she was beaten by competitors from Iran and Venezuela who advanced to the final.
Petrillo, who was diagnosed with Stargardt disease at 14, stopped running but was inspired to compete after watching Italian athlete Pietro Mennea’s success in the 1980 Olympics. She began her transition in 2019 but has been competing in para sports since she was 41. In 2023, she won bronze medals in the 200 and 400 world championship races with times of 26.31 and 58.24 seconds respectively.
Petrillo’s appearance at the Paralympic Games comes in the wake of Olympic boxing gold medalist Imane Khelif facing scrutiny over false claims about her sex. Petrillo’s journey as a transgender athlete adds to the ongoing conversation about gender identity and participation in sports. Despite not making it to the final in this event, Petrillo’s dedication and achievements in para sports showcase her determination and talent as an athlete.
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