In the realm of Paralympic powerlifting, Donato Telesca stands out not merely for his accolades but for the fervor he brings to the sport. Born in Pietragalla, Italy, he now calls Rome home, where echoes of his triumphs are perhaps rivaled only by the guiding memories of loved ones. As he steps into the spotlight, poised to compete in the men’s up to 88kg category, there’s an undeniable sense of anticipation brewing. He’s aware that this could mark a pivotal moment, yet one can’t help but wonder: will the absence of the former champion, Abdelkareem Khattab, make or break his quest for gold?

His journey, while punctuated by shiny medals, is steeped in personal narratives. The bronze medal he won in Paris was dedicated to his family, particularly to his late grandparents—those who shaped his resolve yet never witnessed his ascent. “This medal belongs to them before anyone else,” he said, a poignant reminder of how intertwined loss and victory can be in one’s narrative arc. His coach, Antonio, remained a steadfast figure, instilling belief even when external noise suggested doubt.

Donato’s competitive spirit ignited in 2016, and what began with youthful exuberance quickly morphed into a pursuit marked by golden victories at youth championships. From sixth place at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics to bronze at the 2024 Games, each lift feels like a chapter in a saga still being written. Yet, despite a trajectory that is seemingly flawless, shadows of uncertainty linger. He reflects on past competitions, where the pressure to perform felt immense, compounded by the visibility of his supporters—friends and family urging him toward greatness.

Now, he prepares for Cairo, stepping into a new weight class among seasoned competitors. It’s a fresh challenge, a new chapter for the 26-year-old—and unlike the seemingly straightforward lifts he accomplishes, the emotional weight of each competition remains a complex reality. As he lifts, there is an inherent blend of desperation and determination; Telesca seems to embody the journey of countless athletes, wherein the pursuit of excellence never comes without layers of personal sacrifice and heart.