Larissa Iapichino, the smile of the Italian long jump, awarded in Fiesole

Larissa Iapichino received the Fair Play Menarini Award “a smile for life” in the final evening of the XXVII edition of the event, which took place yesterday at the Roman Theater of Fiesole. The young Italian long jump champion, who won the bronze medal at the European indoor championships in Torun and the Italian under 20 record with the measure of 6.91 meters, was awarded by two legends of world sport: Edwin Moses and Tommie Smith.

Moses is the greatest hurdler of all time, Olympic champion of the 400-meter hurdles in Montreal 1976 and Los Angeles 1984, winner of 107 consecutive finals between 1977 and 1987. Smith won the gold medal at the Mexico City 1968 Games on the 200 meters, protagonist – together with his compatriot John Carlos, who came third in that race – of a gesture that entered history: the clenched fist, on the podium, against racial discrimination.

The two American athletes presented Larissa Iapichino with the prestigious award, which every year rewards athletes who have distinguished themselves for the values of ethics, respect and loyalty in competition. Larissa Iapichino thanked with emotion the two award winners and dedicated the award to her family, her coaches and all those who support her in her sports career.

Larissa Iapichino is one of the brightest promises of Italian athletics, daughter of art of two great champions: Fiona May, twice Olympic silver medalist in long jump, and Gianni Iapichino, former hurdler and now coach. Larissa has shown since childhood to have talent and passion for sport, practicing different disciplines before choosing long jump as her specialty.

At only 18 years old, Larissa Iapichino has already collected several successes at national and international level, including two European titles under 18 (in long jump and mixed relay 4×100 meters) and two world titles under 20 (in long jump and mixed relay 4×400 meters). Her dream is to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympics and emulate her mother’s exploits.

Larissa Iapichino is also an example of sympathy, cheerfulness and positivity, always ready to smile and convey her joy of living. For this reason, the Fair Play Menarini Award “a smile for life” suits her perfectly. Larissa Iapichino represents the spirit of sport, made of commitment, dedication, fair play and fun.