A 76% Physically Challenged Catalan Athlete is the World's First to Complete a Marathon

William Tracy

***This post was written using information from Wilson Blog and The Straits Times***

Photo of Alex Roca CampilloPhoto byAlex Roca Campillo/Instagram

Alex Roca Campillo is a 32-year-old Spaniard from Barcelona who has done what many people thought was unachievable. Alex's cerebral palsy and physical disability, which affected 76% of the left side of his body, were identified at the tender age of 6 months after he contracted herpetic viral encephalitis (cerebral herpes). The doctors wrote Alex off as a hopeless case, but his doggedness and perseverance have made him an inspiration.

Alex is a sports fan who likes to push himself to his limits, despite having limited mobility on his left side and communicating through sign language. His ability to run marathons, speak at conferences, and face any difficulty head-on has made him an example to many.

Alex has had to overcome many difficulties in his life, but he uses athletics as a means of development. He attributes much of his success to the way athletics have shaped his life and allowed him to break through previously insurmountable obstacles. His personal philosophy is "You set your own limits," and he hopes to demonstrate that point to others.

Alex's passion for sports and his inspiring story caught the attention of Wilson, who chose to collaborate with him as a Wilson Padel ambassador to make padel more inclusive. Wilson believes that everyone, regardless of their gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or ability, deserves equal treatment, opportunities, and inclusion in sports.

Recently, Alex achieved something extraordinary as he fulfilled his lifelong dream of running a marathon as an athlete with 76% cerebral palsy. Astoundingly, he finished the Barcelona Marathon in 5 hours, 50 minutes, and 51 seconds. Alex had been preparing for this moment for a long time, having completed seven half marathons prior to attempting the full marathon. He raced the Granollers Half Marathon in 2:45:16 and then set a new personal record of 2:38:28 at the Barcelona Half Marathon on February 19. He has also taken part in five triathlons and one triathlon.

Alex is an ambassador for the FC Barcelona Foundation and the first and only athlete with cerebral palsy to be supported by Nike. Nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it, as demonstrated by his tale of perseverance, hard work, and inspiration. Alex Roca Campillo exemplifies the power of will and resolve to succeed in the face of adversity.

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Hello there, I'm William, and I'm a content creator who loves telling people's tales about their struggles, challenges, disabilities, and triumphs. I firmly believe that each individual's story is unique and important, and it is my goal to provide them with a platform to be heard. People and their lived experiences have always captivated me. Growing up, I was exposed to people from various backgrounds and cultures, which molded my view of the world. I realized that everyone has a story to share, and it is our responsibility to listen and learn from them. Through my writing, I aim to inspire others to see the world in new ways and to value the diversity of human experiences. I want to share the tales of people who have surmounted adversity and accomplished great things, as well as those who are still on their path to success. I am sure that everyone, no matter where they come from or what they are going through, has the ability to do great things. By telling the stories of people who have overcome problems, I hope to encourage other people to face their own problems and go after their dreams. I think that by sharing people's life stories, we can make the world a more compassionate and understanding place.

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