by InTrieste
Hundreds of Paralympic swimmers from around the world have arrived on Friuli Venezia Giulia’s coast coast for the Para Swimming World Series Lignano Sabbiadoro & Italian Winter Open Championships, a prestigious international competition set to take place from March 13 to 16 at the Bella Italia Village’s Olympic pool. The event, organized by the Italian Paralympic Swimming Federation (Finp), is a major stop on the international circuit, drawing elite athletes seeking qualification times for upcoming global competitions.
The tournament underscores Lignano Sabbiadoro’s growing reputation as a premier host for international sporting events. The seaside town, known for its accessibility and state-of-the-art facilities, has become a key training and competition hub for para-athletes. Over the coming days, spectators can expect to witness world-class performances from some of the sport’s most accomplished swimmers.
Among those competing are Manuel Bortuzzo and Antonio Fantin, both native to the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. Fantin, a Paralympic gold medalist, trains daily at the Bella Italia Village and is expected to be a strong contender in multiple events. His presence, along with that of other world champions, reinforces the region’s commitment to fostering excellence in adaptive sports.
Beyond the competition itself, the event serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and inclusion. Athletes who have overcome significant personal and physical challenges are set to deliver extraordinary performances, pushing the boundaries of human capability.
“The energy in the pool is incredible,” said Monica Boggioni, an Italian Paralympic medalist and Finp representative. “These swimmers train relentlessly, and this championship is a celebration of their dedication and perseverance.”
With rigorous training sessions already underway and excitement building, the Bella Italia Village is expected to welcome large crowds over the weekend. For many athletes, this championship is a crucial step toward Paris 2024 and beyond, setting the stage for another milestone in the evolution of Paralympic swimming.
