Beatrice Vio - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Beatrice Vio is an Italian wheelchair fencer who was born on March 4, 1997 in Venice, Italy.
- 2. At the age of 11, Beatrice contracted a severe form of meningitis which led to the amputation of both her legs and forearms.
- 3. Despite this life-changing event, Beatrice did not let it hold her back and she took up wheelchair fencing as a way to stay active and competitive.
- 4. Beatrice quickly excelled in wheelchair fencing and in 2014, she won her first international competition at the age of 17.
- 5. In 2016, Beatrice made history by becoming the first athlete with a disability to appear on the cover of Vogue Italia.
- 6. That same year, Beatrice won a gold medal at the Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, becoming a Paralympic champion at the age of 19.
- 7. Beatrice is known for her aggressive and dynamic fencing style, which has earned her the nickname "The Queen of Swords."
- 8. In addition to her success in fencing, Beatrice is also a motivational speaker and advocate for disability rights.
- 9. Beatrice was awarded the Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability award in 2019, recognizing her outstanding achievements in wheelchair fencing.
- 10. Beatrice continues to inspire others with her resilience, determination, and positive attitude, proving that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.