As Autism Awareness Month continues to be observed around the world, we are celebrating another iconic athlete whose journey highlights resilience, determination, and the true impact of inclusion in sport. Italian runner Luca Venturelli is an athlete with autism whose path from early challenges to international competition continues to inspire both the autism community and the wider sporting world.

Born in Rimini, Venturelli’s story is one of growth, perseverance, and purpose.

“My biggest supporters are definitely all the families who follow me because they have a story connected to autism, and without a doubt my family,” he shares.

Their support has been central to his journey, alongside the influence of coaches, teammates, and a defining encounter with a Paralympic athlete who taught him “to never be ashamed of who I am.”

From beginning sport as a way to build social connection after therapy, to competing on the global stage, Venturelli’s journey reflects more than athletic success. It demonstrates the potential of athletes on the autism spectrum when they are supported, understood, and allowed to thrive.

Living with autism has shaped Venturelli’s life in complex ways.

“Autism has influenced me both positively and negatively. It has helped me break down barriers… and understand the value of every small achievement. It has left me with rigidities… but I am happy to be accompanied by this ‘invisible companion’ of mine.” 

That mindset – acceptance paired with perseverance – has become central to his identity, both on and off the track.

Venturelli’s introduction to sport began at age 12, following Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy. What started as a tool for social development quickly evolved into something deeper.

“At first, sport was like therapy for me. Over time..it became more and more a passion,” he says.

Today, athletics is more than competition; it is a purpose.

“It’s a way for me to feel like I’m competing with everyone else. Not so much to win titles, but to show how much I want to improve – and to show many kids who have had a story like mine that if they really want it, they can do it,” he explains.

For Venturelli, running represents discipline, fairness, and connection. “I love the discipline, the rules, and the fairness among athletes. Even though it is an individual sport, it really helps to find new relationships.”

Yet the path has not been without obstacles. From sensory challenges to navigating communication and teamwork, his journey reflects the often unseen realities of autism.

“The most difficult aspect has been my rigidity, both physical and emotional. It is a characteristic of autistic people, and it is difficult to find a balance. Another difficulty has definitely been finding the right approach to learn how to relate to my teammates or to other runners. Another has been understanding instructions from a coach or a technical staff member, trying to fully understand how to manage myself in training or in a race. On a sensory level, I still have difficulties because of the starting noise made with the starting pistol.”

He also speaks about discrimination during his school years.

“I have experienced some discrimination, especially during adolescence at school, when I was left out by others or not invited to go out after school or to take part in parties. I was made fun of because very often I needed support to understand certain things I did not grasp right away, and many considered me too privileged for that, making me feel like the black sheep of the group. I asked myself why I was not chosen, and I always tried to mask some of my behaviours or to seem like everyone else.”

Raising Awareness for an Invisible Condition

Venturelli emphasises that autism’s invisibility makes understanding more difficult–but also more necessary.

“Many people still struggle to look at the inner side instead of just the outer one, and to see beyond their own eyes. I believe it is very difficult, also because people with autism are all very different from one another.

“Nowadays, awareness-raising about autism is helping, but first and foremost, people need a strong willingness to observe and listen. Our condition is invisible to the eye, and to understand how we function, you definitely need to spend time with us, because it is in the small things, which we often struggle with a lot, that you can truly realise the real difficulties.”

His achievements – including international medals and records – were never expected, even by him.

“At the beginning, I would never have thought I would get this far, But I have always worked with total commitment to challenge myself.”

Pride, Representation, and Inclusion

Competing on the global stage has brought moments of profound pride.

“Winning a medal for your country is… an indescribable emotion. You feel pushed by the strength of so many people who believe in you.”

At events like the Global Games, Venturelli has competed alongside other athletes with autism, describing the experience as “a great source of pride” and “a true honour.”

Through organisations like Virtus, he sees real change taking shape.

“Virtus competitions serve to support inclusion for athletes with intellectual disabilities and autism. They are a great opportunity to proudly showcase our abilities at an international level. This makes us feel seen and valued. Plus, it is wonderful to meet stories similar to mine around the world and to feel so united and like brothers.”

Luca competes in II3 category for athletes with autism and he currently holds the world record in II3 800 m. He also won gold in 1500m and 5000m at the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships.

A Message That Goes Beyond Sport

At the heart of Venturelli’s journey is a mission far greater than medals.

“My ultimate goal is to tell my story and to show that even though life can put you through difficulties, you must always find the strength to keep going. I want to see many other young people on the autism spectrum practising sport at a high level, feeling welcomed in an environment that is open to them.”

This Autism Awareness Month, his message resonates with urgency and hope:

“Be proud of who you are, do not hide because you are afraid of being different – you are not. You, too, have a power, and you can make it grow. Never be ashamed of your traits… always aim higher because the world needs all kinds of minds.”

As Virtus celebrates its 40th anniversary, we celebrate Luca Venturelli’s resilience and athleticism. Through his achievements and advocacy, he continues to raise awareness for autism and promote inclusion in sport and society.

Virtus at 40: Championing Excellence Since 1986

Virtus, the International Sport Federation for Athletes with an Intellectual Impairment, in collaboration with Virtus Americas, Virtus member in Mexico, Federación Mexicana de Deportistas Especiales (FEMEDE), the Instituto del Deporte de Tlaxcala, and with the endorsement of the Comité Paralímpico Mexicano, successfully conducted the 1st Course of Eligibility for People with Intellectual Impairments 2026, marking a major milestone in strengthening fair and inclusive competitive sport worldwide.

Held from April 16–18, 2026, at the Ciudad Deportiva de Alto Rendimiento Nueva Historia, the workshop brought together psychologists, coaches, and technical professionals from across the Americas and beyond, including participants from Australia, Brazil, England, El Salvador, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and Mexico.

The workshop featured leading international experts, including Dr. Suzie Lemmey, who delivered in-depth training on eligibility determination, and Humberto Luiz Ferreira, who addressed key concepts and characteristics of intellectual impairment.

Additional contributions from Emanuel Franco Garibay Gómez, Mónica Vargas Pérez de León, Samuel Pérez, and Isabel Gomora enriched discussions on competitive sport pathways, health impacts, and inclusion strategies.

A central focus of the course was the eligibility process, a cornerstone of fair competition in sport for athletes with intellectual impairments. Through practical sessions and collaborative dialogue, participants gained the tools to apply standardised criteria while ensuring dignity, transparency, and inclusion.

The initiative also highlighted the growing role of intellectual impairment sport within the Paralympic movement, reinforcing the need for trained professionals across regions.

“This workshop provided an opportunity for learning, feedback, and the exchange of ideas among the Central American countries present,” says Miguel Caraballo Fred, one of the attendees from the workshop. 

Strengthening Expertise in Eligibility and Inclusion

The course aimed to enhance the professional competencies of clinical and educational psychologists, as well as coaches, in the evaluation, identification, and determination of eligibility for athletes with intellectual impairments. The program emphasised an ethical, scientific, and inclusive framework, aligned with current national and international regulations.

Participants engaged in intensive sessions covering:

• Contemporary concepts and classifications of intellectual impairment
• Psychological assessment tools and eligibility criteria
• Ethical considerations and real-world case applications
• The structure and significance of eligibility in competitive sport

A Regional Milestone with Global Impact

With academic endorsement from FEMEDE, COPAME, and VIRTUS, the course represents a significant step toward building a robust network of qualified professionals dedicated to inclusive sport.

Organisers emphasised that this first workshop of 2026 sets the foundation for future training programs and international collaboration, ensuring that athletes with intellectual impairments are supported by high-quality, evidence-based eligibility systems.

A new research initiative led by Canterbury Christ Church University is seeking to better understand the experiences of athletes with autism in high-level sport, and you could play a vital role in shaping its findings.

Virtus is proud to be the only organisation that provides a competition class, II3, specifically designed for athletes with autism. You can read more about the II3 and the story behind the development of this class here.

Why This Research Matters

Athletes with Autism remain underrepresented in elite sport, despite growing recognition of neurodiversity across society. This research aims to explore whether aspects of autism may influence participation in high-performance environments, including professional, regional and international sport.

By bringing together insights from athletes, professionals and supporters, the study aims to build a clearer, evidence-based understanding of the opportunities and challenges faced by autistic athletes.

What Participation Involves

Participants will be invited to take part in a series of short online surveys.

The process is designed to be flexible and reflective, allowing contributors to:

• Share their perspectives and experiences
• Review anonymised group feedback
• Reflect on their responses in later stages

This collaborative approach helps build a well-rounded and informed consensus.

Who Can Take Part?

The research is open to individuals with relevant experience in autism and sport, including those who meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Athletes with autism who have competed at a professional, regional or international level
• Individuals who have supported people or athletes with autism for 3+ years
• Professionals involved in sports eligibility or classification
• Those with 3+ years’ experience working with athletes with autism
• Professionals with 10+ years’ experience working in autism
• Parents or carers of high-performing athletes with autism

Contribute to Meaningful Change

This research is more than a study; it is an opportunity to help shape the future of inclusive sport. By sharing your insights, you can contribute to a deeper understanding that may influence policies, classification systems, and support pathways for athletes with autism worldwide.

Get Involved

If you meet the criteria and are interested in contributing, you are encouraged to get in touch with the lead researcher:

Edan Collett (Trainee Clinical Psychologist): ec927@canterbury.ac.uk

When reaching out, please include:

• Which criteria (1–6) do you meet
• Your relevant years of experience (where applicable)

Be Part of the Change

Your voice can help bridge the gap between autism and elite sport, ensuring that future athletes are better supported, understood and represented.

As Virtus marks Autism Awareness Month, it is an opportunity to celebrate athletes whose stories reflect resilience, determination and the power of inclusion in sport. Among them is Australian swimmer Kate Wallington, whose remarkable journey in the pool has inspired both people with autism and the wider sporting world.

Wallington made history at the Virtus World Swimming Championships, where she broke 12 world records in the II3 class for athletes with autism. Her extraordinary performance not only highlights her exceptional talent and dedication, but also demonstrates the incredible potential of autistic athletes when they are given the opportunity, recognition and support to compete at the highest level.

Originally from Perth, Western Australia, Wallington is also a student at Murdoch University, where she studies Exercise and Sports Science. Her rise to international success is a story built on years of hard work, unwavering family support, and a deep connection with the water that has shaped both her life and her career.

Discovering Swimming at a Young Age

Wallington first discovered her passion for swimming when she was a child and started competing when she was seven years old. While she had always enjoyed swimming lessons as a child, it quickly developed into something more serious when she began training competitively. What began as a childhood activity soon became central to her life.

“I always loved swimming lessons, I loved being underwater” she explains.

At the time, Wallington had not yet been diagnosed with autism. She was only diagnosed at the age of sixteen, meaning that many of her behaviours and preferences as a child were not fully understood.

Looking back, she now realises that her love for being underwater may have been connected to sensory experiences, which is common for individuals with autism.

Swimming provided comfort and focus, but it also gave her something else that would prove equally important: structure and routine.

“I love the structure and the routine, I love the pain, I love training every day. It’s not just the racing – I love the process. That’s one of my favourite things about swimming,” she says.

The Support Behind Her Success

Behind every one of Wallington’s achievements is the unwavering support of her family, especially her mother.

Her mother was the one who first asked if she wanted to start swimming competitively when she was seven years old. For years, she drove her to early morning training sessions and competitions, supporting her daughter’s dream long before the international recognition arrived. Wallington dedicates every medal she wins to her family as much as she does to herself.

“Every medal that I win, I think she deserves a prize too. That’s her medal as well.”

She believes that her success represents more than an individual achievement. It is also a victory for her family, coaches, friends and the country she represents.

Challenges Growing Up Without a Diagnosis

Despite her talent in the pool, Wallington’s journey through school and adolescence was not easy. Before her autism diagnosis, she struggled socially and academically without understanding why. Her daily routine was intense – training before school, attending classes for most of the day, and returning to the pool again in the afternoon. Balancing these demands while masking her autistic traits was exhausting.

“I didn’t do well in school because I was not diagnosed, and so got no support in that aspect and really struggled with the socialising aspect, especially while I was training so much. So I would go from training to school and then back to training in the afternoon, and that meant that I didn’t have time to hang out with my friends from school outside of school, so they thought I was a weirdo. I was masking from five o’clock in the morning till, uh, like seven o’clock at night, and then I’ve struggled with sleep as well, so yeah, I don’t know how I survived. That’s why I developed epilepsy”

Kate recalls masking her behaviour from early morning until late in the evening, trying to fit into environments that did not fully understand her needs. Today, however, her experience in education has improved significantly. At Murdoch University, she finds the learning environment more adaptable and inclusive.

Her course in Exercise and Sports Science closely connects with her life as an athlete, and she hopes to eventually work as an exercise physiologist, particularly supporting autistic individuals.

How Autism Has Shaped Her Journey

Wallington opens up about the ways autism has made both swimming and everyday life more challenging. Competing at international events can be particularly overwhelming due to the intense sensory environment.

“Everything is really overstimulating and really tiring. The bright lights, the sounds, everything about it is a lot,” she explains.

However, swimming itself offers a unique sense of calm.

Being underwater reduces the sensory overload of the outside world. The noise fades, the environment becomes predictable, and the water feels familiar.

“I just feel at home when I’m in the water. I hate being on land,” she says.

Communication has also presented challenges throughout her career. Beyond training and racing, athletes must constantly communicate with coaches, committees and clubs. For Wallington, navigating these interactions has often been difficult, but strong support networks have helped her succeed.

“I’m really lucky to be where I am right now. I have a lot of support around me and a lot of neurodivergent people who understand me,” she says.

Competing in the II3 class

Wallington now competes in the II3 class, a category for athletes with autism within the Virtus competition system. For many years, Kate competed in mainstream competitions before receiving her diagnosis. Competing in the II3 category has allowed her to compete alongside athletes who share similar experiences.

For Wallington, this has been one of the most meaningful parts of the championships.

“It’s amazing getting to see everyone else so proud of themselves and so happy.”

Competing with athletes with autism fosters a sense of shared understanding and mutual respect for Kate. Seeing other athletes celebrate their achievements reminds her how much dedication each competitor has invested in their journey.

A Historic Performance

At the 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships, Wallington’s years of dedication culminated in an extraordinary performance. After more than 12 years of training, she won gold medals and broke 12 world records, representing Australia on the international stage. Kate was also awarded the ‘Best Female Athlete‘ award for her amazing performance at Bangkok 2025.

The moment she touched the wall after one of her races was unforgettable. Winning a world record and representing her country, she says, is a feeling that is difficult to describe.

“Winning a gold medal and getting a world record – you can’t describe how that makes you feel.”

As Virtus celebrates its 40-year anniversary, we proudly celebrate the resilience, determination and extraordinary journey of Kate Wallington. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and inclusion in sport. It shows how understanding, opportunity and strong support can empower athletes with autism to believe in themselves, pursue their dreams and achieve greatness on the world stage.

When Nils-Peter Kling crossed the finish line at the 1994 Winter Paralympics in Lillehammer, he did more than complete a race – gold in cross-country skiing in the category for athletes with an intellectual impairment. Although it was a demonstration event, the victory showed the world that athletes with intellectual impairment belong at the highest level of Paralympic sport. 

Representing Sweden in cross-country skiing, Kling competed in demonstration events and delivered a standout performance in the event helping pave the way for elite competition for athletes with intellectual disabilities. 

Competing on the Paralympic Stage 

Four years later, Kling competed at the 1998 Winter Paralympic Games in Nagano, Japan, where cross-country skiing events for athletes with intellectual impairment were officially included in the programme. 

Representing Sweden, Kling finished: 

• 9th in the 5 km Classical 

• 8th in the 15 km Free 

• 8th in the 20 km Classical 

His participation formed part of a generation of athletes who demonstrated that athletes with intellectual impairment could compete internationally in winter para sport. 

The 1998 Nagano Winter Paralympics marked an important and historical moment that is often overlooked – Cross-country skiing events for athletes with intellectual impairment were included as official medal events in the programme. Winter Paralympics competition for athletes with an intellectual impairment is not a new concept – it has already existed within the Paralympic Games. More than 30 years later, athletes with an intellectual impairment are still waiting for their return to the Winter Paralympic Games. 

As for Kling, he is remembered as an outstanding athlete and teammate. His achievements and contributions to sport were recognised in 2023 when he was inducted into the Parasport Sweden Hall of Fame by the Swedish Parasport Federation. His story, like many athletes with a disability, speaks to the power of sport in helping people overcome adversity. 

A Life Shaped by Resilience 

Long before Lillehammer, Kling’s life had already been shaped by challenges. 

In the early 1980s, Swedish journalist Anders Hansson first met Kling. Known affectionately as “Klingen,” he was energetic, talkative and deeply passionate about skiing. 

Despite the difficulties he faced growing up, Kling was known for his warm personality and eagerness to connect with others. 

Hansson, who worked for the newspaper Falu Kuriren, wrote several articles about Kling, particularly his remarkable performance at Lillehammer in 1994. When Kling returned to his hometown of Falun following the Games, the community celebrated his achievement.  

But the path to that moment had not been easy. 

In later interviews, Gun Lindén – a caregiver and foster parent figure in Sweden who became closely involved in Kling’s life during his youth – described how  Kling had spent part of his childhood in an institution in Hedemora.  His life changed when Lindén welcomed him into her family. With her encouragement and support, Kling discovered skiing – and a passion that would shape the rest of his life. 

Their relationship became a lifelong friendship and laid the foundation for Kling’s sporting journey. 

Inspired by Kling’s resilience, Hansson later wrote a book telling his story. The book explores not only Kling’s sporting achievements but also the broader history of institutionalisation and the challenges faced by people with intellectual disabilities. 

At its heart is a simple but powerful question: 

Instead of asking “What can’t they do?”, society should ask “What can they do?” 

The book is available for purchase at Adlibis. www.adlibris.se

A Legacy That Calls for Change 

Kling’s story represents more than a personal achievement. It represents a generation of athletes who helped prove that athletes with an intellectual impairment belong in high-performance and Paralympic sport.   

At the 1994 Lillehammer Winter Paralympics, Nordic skiing for athletes with an intellectual impairment was included as a demonstration event. By the  1998 Nagano Paralympic Winter Games, cross-country skiing events for athletes with an intellectual impairment were officially added to the programme. 

However, following dishonest actions by a small number of individuals at the Sydney 2000 Paralympics, athletes with an intellectual impairment were removed from the Paralympic Games.   

Although athletes with an intellectual impairment returned to the Summer Paralympics in London 2012, they are still not included in the Winter Paralympic Games today.  

This leaves out talented athletes without the opportunity to compete on the Paralympic stage in winter sports. 

Looking forward

Virtus continues to campaign for greater inclusion of athletes with intellectual impairment. 

Efforts are underway to expand opportunities for athletes with intellectual impairment in winter sports and to introduce medal events for athletes with an intellectual impairment at the next Winter Paralympic Games. 

Recent developments offer hope. French officials have expressed support for including athletes with intellectual impairment at the 2030 Winter Paralympic Games, and Virtus is in direct discussion with the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS). Both organisations have also signed an MOU to advance inclusion in winter sports last year. 

But the journey is not finished. 

The re-inclusion effort will continue until athletes with intellectual impairment once again compete at the Winter Paralympic Games, standing alongside athletes with physical and visual impairments as equal members of the Paralympic movement. 

As Virtus celebrates its 40th anniversary, we honour the legacy of pioneers like Nils-Peter Kling, whose dedication helped shape opportunities for athletes with an intellectual impairment. This journey reflects our shared belief in fairness, inclusion, and opportunity, and our determination to restore the place that athletes with an intellectual impairment have already proven they deserve.