There are stories that, to hear them told, resemble fairy tales. The latest comes from Tokyo, and yours Paralympics. Here, on Saturday 4 September, an extraordinary victory took place: one historic hat-trick in the women's 100 meters, with Italy on the first step of the podium. But also on the second and third.
Sabatini, Caironi, Contrafatto: historic hat-trick in the 100 meters
When they entered the final, someone tried to dream it. However, the reality has exceeded all expectations. And every dream is fulfilled. Amber Sabatini triumphed in the 100 meters, with an incredible time of 14.11 (new world record). Following her, two friends and compatriots: Martina Caironi (14.46) and Monica Counterfact (14.73). Thus, the podium was tinged with the Tricolor. And the screens of the cameras and television cameras were filled with tears, smiles, the sincere emotion of those who scored a feat. "A beautiful spirit has been created, we are very happy. The hymn will be something exceptional"- Martina Caironi commented to Rai microphones -"The medusa trio has arrived. We are united by the desire to overcome ourselves and to get something more out of the disability we have".
"Not only have we overcome our disadvantage, but we are doing something great with it”Explained the veteran. Then confessing that she was inspired by the movements of Ambra Sabatini, who recently arrived at the Paralympics after years of normal athletics. "That's what we dreamed of, it's beautiful“The new world champion echoed her.
Who are Ambra Sabatini, Martina Caironi and Monica Contrafatto
But who are they, the three athletes who scored the historic hat-trick in the 100 meters at the Paralympics? Amber Sabatini, of the three record women, is the smallest. And the least known. Nineteen, she was a promise of athletics specializing in middle distance. Then, two years ago, a car invaded the lane where she was traveling on the scooter: she was with her dad, Amber, and that car cut her knee. A nearby firefighter saved her life, but the amputation was inevitable. "I cried because I wanted the medal too much, represents the redemption of these two years since the accident and finally I feel complete" commented. A destiny, his, similar to that of Martina Caironi. Who, born in 1989, has two gold and three silver medals in the Paralympics and suffered the amputation of his leg due to a motorbike accident when he was only 18 years old.
Monica Counterfact, the first female soldier of the Italian Army to be decorated, she suffered the amputation following a mortar attack in Afghanistan. . "I dedicate the victory to Afghanistan. It is the reason why in the end I find myself here and not somewhere else. It is the country that has taken a part of me from me but in reality it has given me so many emotions and a new life, which is so cool”He said, right after the race. Three different stories, three different women. Which, today, have excited Italy. And given a whole new meaning to sport.
