you will not believe it but why do 51-year-old athletes still Inspire Millions meet Valentina Petrillo the first transgender woman to compete in the par Olympics at 51 Valentina patrio is making history as the first transgender track athlete to compete in the par Olympics competing in the T12 category for visually impaired athletes Petrillo's Journey has been nothing short of extraordinary she transitioned in 2019 and began competing in the women's category a year later despite the controvers IES and debates about fairness and inclusion Petrillo remains focused on her mission to inspire and represent transgender athletes worldwide critics argue that her years of competing as a male give her an unfair Advantage world para-athletics has welcomed her participation standing in contrast to World Athletics stricter rules Petrillo's story is not just about winning races it's about breaking barriers and promoting inclusivity in sports her presence in Paris is a testament to her determination and an inspiration for athletes everywhere Valentina petria redefining what it means to compete