Valentino Galante, already a decorated archer holding North Gauteng colours at the tender age of 16, is poised to make his mark on the international stage!
Pretoria, South Africa (06 May 2025) – At just 16 years old, Valentino Galante is preparing to take his first official step onto the international archery stage, representing South Africa with pride and precision!
Already a standout talent, Valentino holds both North Gauteng Indoor and Outdoor Colours and has qualified for not one, but two major European archery tournaments.
Valentino’s international debut as a professional archer
This year, Valentino will compete in two prestigious events in Slovenia from 26 July to 3 August: the World Archery European Youth Cup and the World Archery Central European Cup.
Originally selected to compete at the World Archery Youth Championships in Canada, Valentino’s plans had to change due to the extensive Canadian visa process, which made it impossible to attend this year’s event. But where one door closed, another opened as Slovenia now becomes the stage for Valentino’s international debut as a professional archer!
These European competitions are highly respected events that attract the best young archers from across the globe. Competing there will give Valentino a powerful opportunity to gain international experience, exposure, and ranking, cementing his entry into the world of professional archery.
“At the age of only 16, Valentino has shown a sense of commitment and maturity beyond his years towards the sport of archery, and is a potential medalist at these European events,” comments the South African National Archery Association
A determined athlete on the rise
Despite his achievements, Valentino’s journey hasn’t been easy. In a country where archery is still a small and often underfunded sport, his rise has been powered by grit, sacrifice, and relentless determination.
The young archer trains diligently, balances his schooling with his sport, and dreams not only of competing but of building a full-time career in archery—something few South Africans have had the opportunity to do and of course to participate in the Olympics.
Beyond his own aspirations, Valentino hopes to represent hope, excellence, and the future of South African sport, creating a pathway for himself and for the generations of archers who will follow in his footsteps.
Helping Valentino get to Slovenia
With his dream not too far from reach, Valentino does need support in getting to Slovenia.
Valentino’s family is currently raising R75,000 to cover his travel, accommodation, equipment, and competition expenses – his launchpad into the international world.
To stand behind this remarkable young athlete and help him step confidently into the future, visit the BackaBuddy crowdfunding page.
Sources: Supplied
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