Siena is a city that cherishes its history and traditions, yet it also looks to the future with open eyes and an inclusive heart. A remarkable example of this spirit is the Paralympic Project for Ancient Crossbow Shooting, promoted by ASD GS Casetta Menteaperti and the “Monteaperti 1260” Crossbowmen Group, with the support of the Vismederi Foundation.
For six years, the Monteaperti 1260 Crossbowmen have achieved remarkable successes, both in sport and historical reenactment. The team, made up of 25 athletes of all ages, trains in two modern facilities—one outdoor and one indoor—both fully accessible. These spaces host Italian Championship tournaments and local competitions, while nurturing a deep passion for Siena’s historical traditions. In 2024, for example, athletes from Siena won in all categories—female, male, and junior—earning recognition across Italy.
Today, this same passion is being dedicated to inclusion. The Paralympic project, launched in collaboration with FIGEST and the Italian Paralympic Committee, officially began during the Sports and Inclusion Day on April 13 at the Castle of Meleto. On that day, many people with disabilities had the chance to try crossbow shooting—an unexpected and exciting experience. Siena’s own Paralympic champion, Matteo Betti, shared his journey, inspiring participants with his energy and enthusiasm.
The project is ambitious and requires commitment, resources, and dedication. It includes adapted shooting ranges with special aiming systems, crossbows equipped with laser pointers and audio sensors for visually impaired athletes, and supports for participants with mobility challenges. Additionally, new federal coaches will be trained, and safe accompaniment procedures developed for non-autonomous athletes, ensuring that sport is truly accessible to everyone.
Currently, seven Tuscan athletes, both visually impaired and blind, have joined the project. They will begin training once the adapted equipment is ready, visit federal training centers, and participate in the Italian Paralympic Championship. The ambitious goal is to have at least ten athletes ready for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympics, making Siena a national example of inclusive sport.
Thanks to the support of the Vismederi Foundation, this vision can grow into real opportunities for those facing challenges, showing that sport can be a bridge open to all. Just as the three hundred Siena crossbowmen made history in the Battle of Montaperti in 1260, today Siena continues to be a city of passion, courage, and pride, now strengthened by the inclusive power of sport.
