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Transgender Runner Valentina Petrillo Faces Criticism After Paralympic Debut

Petrillo, the first transgender athlete to compete in Paralympic track events, sparks debate over fairness and inclusion.

  • Valentina Petrillo did not qualify for the 400m T12 final despite achieving a personal best time.
  • J.K. Rowling and other critics have labeled Petrillo a 'cheat' for competing in women's events.
  • Petrillo, diagnosed with Stargardt disease at 14, transitioned in 2019 and has since competed as a woman.
  • The International Paralympic Committee allows transgender athletes to compete if they meet specific criteria.
  • Petrillo will compete in the 200m T12 event later this week.
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