Marina Pettinella

Portrait of a paralympic swimming champion

Born in an orphanage in Moscow, Marina arrived in Trentino at the age of three. Her early years were marked by enormous physical and cognitive difficulties, and Marina had to face challenges that would have discouraged anyone. Instead, thanks to the love and perseverance of her adoptive parents, Paolo and Angela, she began a journey of recovery and growth, under the guiding star of sport.

 

Sport as a method of exploration and realisation

Since she was little, Marina has shown an innate predisposition for sport. Starting with running, she discovered the joy of movement and the satisfaction of pushing her limits. Trentino, with its mountains and traditions, offered her the opportunity to explore various disciplines: from gymnastics to judo, from football to track and field. However, it was swimming where Marina found her true vocation.

For Marina, sport was a way to finally discover and connect with her body, and become its master.

Marina Pettinella podio | © Archivio Trentino Mktg

Swimming: a passion made into a success

Encouraged by her parents and supported by dedicated trainers, Marina began to visit the pool regularly, overcoming her initial fear of the water and discovering her strength and resilience. Her talent didn't go unnoticed, and on the recommendation of trainer Dino Coppola, she embarked on a competitive career in paralympic swimming, joining the Italian Paralympic Swimming Federation (FIP). At just 20 years old, she had her first successes at the Italian Championships, immediately winning three gold medals and establishing herself with 3 podium rankings in every FISDIR championship she competed in (Italian Federation of Paralympic Sports for People with Intellectual and Relational Disabilities).

 

Swimming as freedom and pleasure

In swimming, Marina found a discipline that allowed her to express her strength and resilience. She loves exerting herself and the challenge of improving her times to continue to achieve new goals. "Swimming is freedom from stress, a pleasure".

Sport has enriched Marina's life in many ways. Races have given her the opportunity to travel, both in Italy and abroad, broadening her horizons and allowing her to meet new people. The commitment and dedication needed for swimming have also helped to develop her autonomy, as she has had to learn to manage her training, travel and daily life independently.

 

Beyond national borders: a European and global champion

Marina's talent and self-sacrifice have led to her representing Italy at an international level. She has competed in two European Championships, in Paris and Krakow, and participated in the World Championships in Brisbane, Australia, demonstrating her ability in top-level competitions. Her successes have brought glory to Trentino and Italy, making her an example of determination and talent for many young athletes.

Marina Pettinella oro | © Archivio Trentino Mktg
Marina Pettinella medaglia | © Archivio Trentino Mktg
Marina Pettinella Roma | © Archivio Trentino Mktg
Marina  | © Archivio Trentino Mktg
Marina Pettinella medaglia | © Archivio Trentino Mktg

Unshakable support from her family

Marina's journey wouldn't have been possible without the unconditional support of her family. Paolo and Angela have been by her side for every challenge, searching for the best specialists, accompanying her to training and competitions, and offering her unshakable love and trust. Their constant commitment has created a safe, stimulating environment that has allowed Marina to flourish and reach her potential.

A story of inspiration and determination

Today, Marina continues to train with commitment and dedication, aiming for new goals. She has expressed the desire to participate in the next Paralympics in Los Angeles, and the one after that, which will include races in open water. Alongside her sports career, Marina is also building her independence in the working world, taking part in an internship at a social cooperative.

Marina's story is an example of how sport can be a powerful force for transformation. Through sport, she has overcome adversity, discovered her abilities, and found a source of joy, satisfaction and independence.

Her journey is an inspiration for everyone. She shows us that with passion, dedication and the support of loved ones, we can achieve extraordinary things, overcoming limits and barriers to make our dreams come true.

Paralympic Champions

Paralympic Champions

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Published on 31/10/2024