50-year-old Valentina Petrillo becomes first transgender woman to compete at Paralympics in Paris.

50-year-old Valentina Petrillo becomes the first transgender woman to compete at the Paralympics in Paris. Petrillo, who began her athletic journey at 7 years old, will participate in the 200 and 400-meter events in the T12 classification for visually impaired athletes. World Para Athletics, unlike World Athletics, has not imposed a ban on transgender women competing in the female category at international events if they transitioned after puberty. To compete, transgender athletes must declare their gender identity for sporting purposes is female and provide evidence that their testosterone levels have been below 10 nanomoles per liter of blood for at least 12 months prior to their first competition. Despite concerns about potential advantages, Petrillo believes she is at a physical disadvantage due to hormonal treatment and respects the rights and best interests of all athletes involved.

August 23, 2024
18 Articles