by InTrieste
In the tranquil northeastern corner of Italy, nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Slovenian border, three remarkable athletes from Friuli Venezia Giulia are poised to make their mark on the world stage at this summer’s Paris Olympics. Each hailing from diverse backgrounds, they share a common thread of dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering passion for their respective sports.
At just 20 years old, Matteo Parenzan stands as a beacon of resilience and determination. From the picturesque port city of Trieste, Matteo has transcended the challenges imposed by nemaline myopathy, a rare neuromuscular disorder, to become a world champion in Paralympic table tennis (category 6). Reflecting on the profound impact of sport in his life, Matteo emphasizes its role in fulfilling his lifelong dream of participating in the Paralympic Games:
“Sport has become a fundamental point in my life because thanks to it, I have managed to fulfill one of my greatest dreams, which is to take part in a Paralympic Games.”
Matteo’s journey to success has been underscored by moments of triumph, none more significant than his recent victory in Lasko, Slovenia, a win that secured his place in the upcoming Paris Olympics. Beyond the boundaries of table tennis, Matteo draws inspiration from legendary basketball icon LeBron James, admiring not only his exceptional athleticism but also his unwavering professionalism and human qualities.
For Mara Navarria, born in the serene village of Carlino, fencing has been a lifelong pursuit guided by passion and familial support. A stalwart in Italian fencing, Mara has amassed an impressive resume, including the 2018 individual world championship and a bronze medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics in the team event. Her journey began at the age of 10, when fencing emerged as the perfect winter sport amidst the rural backdrop of Carlino. Supported by her parents Emanuela and Diego, Mara found early success in youth championships, setting the stage for a distinguished career in épée fencing.
Reflecting on her two-decade-long career, Mara acknowledges the pivotal role of teamwork and support, particularly from the Italian Army, which has been a steadfast companion through both triumphs and trials:
“In these 20 years I had the Esercito by my side supporting me in every difficult and happy moment.”
As she prepares for her final Olympics in Paris, Mara remains rooted in her Friuli Venezia Giulia heritage, carrying not just the national flag but also pieces of home in the form of books and cherished mementos.
Jana Germani, the vibrant sailor from Trieste, embodies the spirit of adventure and determination that characterizes her beloved seaside hometown. Born against the backdrop of Trieste’s azure waters, Jana’s affinity for sailing was cultivated from a tender age, navigating the family boat through the pristine Croatian seas as a mere infant. At seven, she embarked on her own sailing odyssey aboard a small optimist, choosing the freedom and independence of the sea over her initial passion for swimming.
For Jana, the journey to the Olympics has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, punctuated by relentless determination and a steadfast commitment to her craft. Crowned Junior World Champion in 2021, Jana is set to make her Olympic debut in Paris, where she hopes to showcase her skills and represent both Trieste and Friuli Venezia Giulia with pride:
“It’s my first Olympic Games but the goal is to perform at the highest with no regards.”
Friuli Venezia Giulia, a region celebrated for its cultural richness and natural beauty, has fostered a deep-seated connection among these athletes to their roots. From the bustling streets of Trieste to the tranquil villages of Carlino and beyond, their stories epitomize the region’s ethos of resilience, perseverance, and unwavering determination.
As Matteo Parenzan, Mara Navarria, and Jana Germani embark on their respective journeys to the Paris Olympics, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of a region known for its maritime spirit and sporting prowess. Their paths, marked by sacrifice, triumph, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, serve as an inspiration not only to their local communities but to aspiring athletes worldwide.
In the hallowed arenas of Paris, amidst the fervor and spectacle of the Olympics, these athletes from Friuli Venezia Giulia will etch their names in history, each striving to reach the pinnacle of sporting achievement. Their stories, woven together by a shared passion for sport and an unyielding determination to succeed, illuminate the essence of what it means to pursue greatness against all odds.
As the world converges in Paris for the Summer Olympics, the spotlight will shine brightly on Matteo Parenzan, Mara Navarria, and Jana Germani, ambassadors of their craft and beacons of hope for a region that continues to inspire through its rich tapestry of culture, resilience, and sporting excellence.
