The world of Paralympic sport is mourning the loss of Giuliano Koten, a true pioneer for athletes with disabilities in Italy and a leading figure in Paralympic archery. Koten, 85, passed away earlier this month, leaving behind a legacy of athletic achievement, social advocacy, and unwavering determination. He was a longtime member of Ancora Sport Asd Compagnia Arcieri Novara.
Born in Fiume (now Rijeka, Croatia) in 1941, Koten’s life was marked by displacement and resilience. He and his family relocated to Novara, Italy, after World War II, an experience that profoundly shaped his perspective. In 1965, a workplace accident left him paralyzed, but rather than succumb to adversity, Koten embraced sport as a path to recovery and a platform for change. This marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey that would inspire generations.
Koten quickly became a force in the Paralympic movement, competing in six Paralympic Games across multiple disciplines – athletics, fencing, basketball, and archery. His dedication yielded significant international success, including one gold medal, one silver medal, and five bronze medals. Beyond the medals, however, Koten’s impact stemmed from his unwavering spirit and his commitment to breaking down barriers for athletes with disabilities.
His athletic achievements were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Collare d’Oro al Merito Sportivo (Gold Collar for Sporting Merit) in 2024, the title of Knight Grand Cross, and the “Sigillum Communitatis Novariae” in 1988, an award recognizing him as “Novarese of the Year.” These honors underscored his profound contribution to the sporting and social fabric of Novara and Italy.
Koten’s influence extended far beyond the competition arena. He was a founding member of ASHD Novara, a sports association for people with disabilities, and dedicated himself to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in sport. He also served as president of the “Il Timone” association, providing support to individuals facing hardship, and later became its honorary president. His commitment to social justice was deeply rooted in his personal experiences as an exile from Fiume, and he consistently shared his story to commemorate the Day of Remembrance and honor the victims of the foibe massacres.
Just days before his passing, Koten carried the Paralympic torch in Turin as part of the relay for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games, a poignant symbol of his enduring connection to the movement. He previously carried the Olympic flame during the Turin 2006 Winter Games, demonstrating his continued relevance and inspiration within the broader Olympic family.
Koten’s life story was chronicled in the biography “Giuliano Koten che visse tre volte” (Giuliano Koten Who Lived Three Times) by Renato Ambiel, which details his journey from able-bodied life to navigating life in a wheelchair and his subsequent achievements. An interview with Carlo Casoli further illuminates his remarkable experiences.
In 2024, Koten shared his story in an interview with YouArco during the Italian Indoor Archery Championships in Novara. The interview (starting at 55:30) offers a personal glimpse into his life and motivations.
Giuliano Koten’s passing represents a significant loss for the Paralympic community and the city of Novara. His legacy will continue to inspire athletes and advocates for inclusivity for years to come. He demonstrated that adversity can be overcome with courage, determination, and a commitment to serving others. His story is a powerful reminder that champions never truly die; they live on as legends.
The Paralympic Games Milano-Cortina 2026 will serve as a fitting tribute to Koten’s life and work, continuing the spirit of inclusivity and athletic excellence he championed throughout his life. Further updates on memorial arrangements will be released by Ancora Sport Asd Compagnia Arcieri Novara.
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