Eduardo Gauto

Started: He took up the sport at age nine at Club Portela in Lanus, Argentina. (Athlete, 22 Aug 2021; clublanus.com, 05 Mar 2016) Reason: A physical education teacher advised him to get involved in judo. (Athlete, 22 Aug 2021; aadeporte.com.ar, 15 May 2019) Awards: In 2021 he received the 'Olimpia de Plata' [Silver Olympia] Award as Best Para Judoka of the Year from the Sports Journalists Circle in Argentina. (unoentrerios.com.ar, 14 Dec 2021) Additional Info: VACCINE VOLUNTEER He took part in a COVID-19 vaccine trial in 2020. "One day I went crazy and decided to get infected with the virus. The idea was to get the disease and then get back to training. I consulted my sister-in-law who is therapist and kinesiologist and she wanted to kill me. She advised me instead to be a volunteer to receive a vaccine because some testing would be done in Argentina. I met all the requirements and was accepted to receive the shot. Half of the group received a placebo and the other half received the vaccine. I don't know what I got and I will be under continuous testing for two years. My thought at the beginning was very selfish, then once I got involved in the process I realised it is important to take part in this because I can become a role model for humanity." (tycsports.com, 06 Sep 2020)