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Transgender Sprinter Valentina Petrillo Misses Out on Paralympics Final

'I Hope My Son is Proud' Says Mother of Transgender Sprinter

Petrillo Ran Personal Best Time But Not Fast Enough to Qualify for Final

Italian transgender sprinter Valentina Petrillo just missed out on a spot in the women's 200-meter final at the Paralympics in Tokyo.

Petrillo, who transitioned in 2020, ran a personal best time of 26.64 seconds in her semifinal heat but it was not fast enough to qualify for the final.

The 23-year-old Petrillo, who was born male, is one of a small number of transgender athletes competing at the Paralympics, and her story has attracted a lot of attention.

"I hope my son is proud of me," Petrillo said in an interview after her race.

"I know he is watching me and I want to make him proud."

Petrillo's mother, Maria, was also proud of her daughter's performance.

"She ran a great race," Maria said. "I am so proud of her."

Petrillo's story is an inspiration to many, and she has shown that transgender athletes can compete at the highest level of sport.

She is a role model for other transgender athletes, and she is helping to change the way the world views transgender people.

Petrillo's story is also a reminder that transgender people are just like everyone else, and they deserve to be treated with respect.

They should be able to live their lives without fear of discrimination or prejudice.

Petrillo's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion and diversity.

She is an inspiration to us all.

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