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WORLD CHAMPION DIMITRI COUTYA’S JOURNEY IN THREE MOMENTS

United Kingdom

As part of our ongoing para-sports campaign, Kukri Sports is proud to partner with British Fencing, supplying their training and podium-wear while supporting athletes who are redefining limits.

Among them is Dimitri Coutya MBE, whose story is one of extraordinary resilience, perseverance and achievement.

After a car accident at the age of two left him with a T-4 spinal cord injury and wheelchair-bound, Dimitri discovered fencing as a young boy and quickly revealed his talent, winning two bronze medals at his first two competitions.

Since then, his rise since has been remarkable. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, he secured team silver, team bronze and two individual bronze medals, before making history as the first British fencing athlete to be selected in all three individual weapons for the 2024 Paralympic Games.

In Paris, Dimitri went on to claim individual Foil gold and individual Epee gold, helping Team GB surpass their Tokyo gold medal tally.

Most recently, he added to his legacy with gold at this year’s Para Fencing Championships, cementing his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Dimitri shared three defining images that capture the milestones of his journey so far.

Photo 1: My First UK School Games Competition

“I was nervous but so excited, as it gave me a taste for what big competitions could look and feel like, and made me really want to continue pursuing fencing.”

Dimitri’s first UK School Games competition introduced him to the thrill of competitive fencing. The experience ignited his passion for the sport and set the foundation for a career defined by skill, focus and determination.

Photo 2: Semi-final loss at Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games

“It was a haunting moment for me, and definitely was a driving force for helping my preparations in the years to come.”

A narrow 15-14 defeat in the men’s foil individual category B event ended Dimitri’s hopes of individual gold in Tokyo. Yet this heartbreaking loss became a powerful motivator, inspiring him to bounce back with his third bronze medal.

Ever since, Dimitri has never looked back and continues to be an inspiration for para-fencers all over the world.

Photo 3: Becoming Paralympic Champion

“Becoming Paralympic champion for the first time was a special moment. The disbelief and shock on my face after all those years of doubt and frustration is quite clear!

I felt like I righted some of the mistakes I had made previously, and was motivated to try and go further next time.”

Three years after Tokyo, Dimitri achieved the ultimate reward for his perseverance in becoming double champion at the 2024 Paralympic Games.

The moment captured not only the culmination of years of dedication but also the spirit of resilience that defines him as an athlete and an inspiration to others.

Through our para-sports campaign, Kukri Sports celebrates athletes like Dimitri, whose achievements rewrite records and perceptions alike. From grassroots beginnings to the world’s biggest stages, we’re proud to provide the apparel that supports their journey and showcases the brilliance and power of para-sport.

Beyond Limits. Together.