Davyd Andryiesh: The Paralympic Dream Continues, With Alex Zanardi Always in His Heart

Davyd Andryiesh is one of the leading figures in Italian handcycling. Born in Ukraine and raised in Villasanta, he has lived with spastic tetraparesis since birth. Over the years, he has achieved numerous successes, establishing himself at the top of his category. “I race in the H2 category, the same as Luca Mazzone, Italy’s flag-bearer for the 2024 Paris Paralympics. I recently won the regional title right here in Monza, and next week I’ll be competing in the Italian Championship in Zoppola,” Andryiesh tells Sportal.it.

His connection to the Monza National Autodrome is special. He trains regularly on the Brianza circuit, and it was here that he achieved one of the successes he’s most proud of. “I made my debut in 2016 in Cesano Maderno, but Monza is something unique. The Autodromo is the Temple of Speed, and being able to say I’ve won there is an indescribable feeling. Thanks to an agreement between the Federation and the Autodromo, the circuit remains open during the summer for Paralympic athletes to train. This agreement is crucial for the local area, because training on public roads isn’t easy. We also travel at high speeds, about 50 centimeters off the ground, and the risks are many. The case of the cyclist who recently died in Macherio is emblematic: having a safe space like Monza is indispensable.”

Among the figures who have most influenced his journey is Alex Zanardi, who recently passed away: “He was the leading advocate for the Paralympic movement in Italy and around the world. Thanks to him, countless people have taken up sports, proving that athletic activity can break down barriers of exclusion. There’s still a lot to be done: only a small percentage of people with disabilities participate in sports, but he conveyed an extraordinary message.”

The dream of the Paralympics remains alive, even though Davyd now looks to the future with realism. “I still hope to fulfill my Paralympic dream, though I think it might be more as a commentator than as an athlete. I’m also focusing on the professional aspects of my life and have to deal with some sports-related injuries, such as bilateral bursitis. I’d love to cover the Paralympics and continue raising awareness about this world. In the meantime, I hope to win again and achieve further successes.”