Truro’s Fabio Zamparelli Takes the World by Storm in Para Athletics

Para athlete Fabio Zamparelli, a 20-year-old from Truro, is making waves on the global athletics scene after an impressive international debut.

Competing in the European Championships in Sweden this June, Fabio secured a silver medal in the discus competition with a lifetime personal best throw. He also earned a commendable fourth place in the shot put.

These achievements have catapulted Fabio to the top of the world rankings in his category. He is now the world number one in the Under 23 category for discus and ranks third among senior competitors, a remarkable feat for an athlete making his first appearance at a senior GB event.

A Path to Paralympic Glory

Fabio’s success at the European Championships has further solidified his position as a rising star in British athletics. Recognising his potential, Fabio has been awarded a 2024 achievement award from GLL’s Sports Foundation. He is also part of the UK Athletics Futures Paralympic Programme for 2023-2025, where he continues to train and develop his skills with a singular focus: representing Team GB at the Paralympic Games.

Reflecting on his debut, Fabio said, “I was competing against the best in the world, and they were seven to ten years older than me. It was a great experience.” His dedication is evident in his rigorous training schedule, which includes three days a week of gym work, alongside six hours of technical training for shot put and discus.

Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Others

Fabio’s journey to success has not been without challenges. Growing up with an intellectual impairment, he was often a target for bullies at school. However, sport provided an avenue for him to integrate and build confidence. Initially a rugby player, Fabio discovered his passion for athletics at the age of fifteen. “I wanted something to do during the rugby off-season,” he recalled. “First, I tried sprinting, hurdles, and high jump, but as soon as I tried the shot put and discus, I was hooked.”

Since then, Fabio has been driven by a singular dream – to represent Team GB at the Paralympics. His journey is supported by the GLL Sports Foundation, which has provided him with vital resources to pursue his ambitions. Fabio is one of 116 athletes in Cornwall to benefit from the foundation’s 2024 awards, which collectively total nearly £70,000.

GLL’s Commitment to Athlete Development

James Curry, GLL’s Head of Service in Cornwall, expressed his pride in Fabio’s achievements. “It’s a real privilege to be able to help Fabio achieve both his potential and his dreams,” James said. “Success in sport requires not only talent, but dedication, expert coaching, and support. Fabio’s story is inspiring, and I heartily congratulate him on everything he’s achieved and continues to achieve.”

The GLL Sports Foundation is the largest independent programme of its kind in the UK, with 2,256 athletes benefiting from its support this year alone. Fabio’s journey is a testament to the impact of such initiatives, and he remains determined to continue his rise in the world of athletics. “I am working towards being European champion, world champion, and Paralympic champion. I will not give up!” Fabio declared.

For more information on the GLL Sports Foundation, visit https://www.gllsportfoundation.org/.