Lorenzo Cazzavillan Qualifies for World Down Syndrome Championships

Photo Credit: Lorenzo Cazzavillan

The 21-year-old has earned three qualifying A times and one B time, but his family still needs help covering the cost of travelling to Portugal.

Johannesburg, South Africa (14 October 2026) – Johannesburg swimmer Lorenzo Cazzavillan has earned the chance to compete on the world stage after qualifying for the 12th World Down Syndrome Swimming Championships in Portugal later this month.

The 21-year-old will join a South African team travelling to Albufeira for the championships, which run from 30 October to 7 November. He has secured three qualifying A times and one B time after years of training and steadily improving his performances.

For his father, Max Cazzavillan, the achievement is especially significant because Lorenzo earned his place through competition rather than receiving an invitation.

“He’s got three qualifying A times and one qualifying B time,” Max said. “He’s put a lot of work into it, and I think he’s reaping the rewards.”

Lorenzo’s swimming journey began with lessons when he was young, initially so he could be safe around water. His enjoyment of the sport became more apparent at Casa do Sol School for Special Education, where swimming was part of the programme. His family was later encouraged to pursue the sport more seriously, and he joined the Mandeville Dolphins, where his training became more structured.

Over the past three years, Lorenzo has represented Gauteng at the SASA II/DS National Games, earning medals in several events. He also won silver in the 100m at the Special Olympics National Games and competed at the South African Short Course Championships in Pietermaritzburg, where he recorded his fastest 100m freestyle time.

Despite qualifying for the international competition, the trip is not officially funded. Lorenzo will travel through DISO South Africa, and his family must cover expenses including flights, accommodation, entry fees, travel and specialist racing equipment. His father says an entry-level racing suit alone can cost around R6,500.

The trip will also be Lorenzo’s first overseas experience. His father hopes he will get the opportunity to meet swimmers from other countries, make friends and see what other athletes with Down syndrome are achieving.

The fundraising campaign has already attracted support from people connected to the family, the Mandeville Dolphins and Max’s running club. But more money is needed to get Lorenzo to Portugal.