Para Sailor Spotlight - Q&A with Alessandro Lancellotti

An all-round adrenaline junkie, at just 16, Alessandro’s life took a dramatic turn when a motorcycle accident resulted in him losing the use of his legs – he is now a wheelchair user.

Using sport as a key part of his rehabilitation, it wasn’t long before Alessandro was back fulfilling his need for speed, through Para skiing, motorbiking and his passion on the water, Para Kiteboarding, for which he uses an adapted board with a seat.

In June, Alessandro took part in the first ever World Sailing Para Kiteboarding Development Programme (PDP), where he spoke to us about his passion for sport, and his hopes to one day represent Italy at the Paralympic Games.

When did you start sailing?

I started sailing at five years old in the Optimist, after that I started windsurfing and at eight years old, I started kitesurfing. I have always been drawn to the ocean and I love the feeling of speed the wind gives you.

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream is to take part in the Paralympic Games and hopefully racing in the international kiting circuit, possibly with some of the sailors I have met here (at the PDP). And why not, maybe win a medal!

What do you think should be done to develop Para Kiting?

I believe the national federations should organise more events like this in Campione, to let more people experience kiting and meet athletes who would like to experiment with it and get into this amazing world.

What is your biggest strength?

My biggest strength is the ability to foil because then I can go faster and faster.

Why do you think it is important that sailing is reinstated at the Paralympic Games?

I think that it’s important to see the return of sailing to the Paralympics because the sport is very attractive for other people to watch, but also for us as athletes to be part of. It allows you to feel really free.

What do you hope the future of Para Kiteboarding looks like?

My biggest hope is that one day we can see Kiteboarding in the Paralympics Games or other international competitions.

I think that this PDP is really important to that. It has brought together many people from all parts of the world to share our knowledge.

What would you say to someone looking to start Para Kiteboarding?

I think that people think Para Kiteboarding is an extreme sport and this is dangerous. But it’s not at all – I think that it’s so beautiful.

Nobody should be afraid of trying Para Kiting and getting started is easy with the help of knowledgeable instructors. Across the world there are many people who practice this discipline. I think my peers would be thrilled to try, to get closer to this sport. I tell them to try, because it’s not as difficult or complicated as it might seem and you can certainly do everything safely.