Gitte
Welslau
"What makes me different is exactly what makes me strong."
Gitte Welslau was born on June 1 2008 in Lier and is a paratriathlete competing in the PTS2 classification. As a member of the Kempisch Triathlon Team, she combines determination with a genuine love for swimming, cycling, and running. In 2024 she earned her international classification and immediately stood out at her first World Triathlon Para Cup, impressing with her focus and resilience. A year later, she became European champion, marking an important milestone in her young career. For Gitte sport is more than just medals and rankings, it’s about challenging herself, growing through every experience and inspiring others. Her journey reflects not only hard work and talent, but also the joy of pushing limits and sharing her passion with those around her.
Sport is more than a hobby for me. It's my passion, my strength, and my way of showing that limits are meant to be pushed. As a Belgian paratriathlete, I give everything I have each day in triathlon, a powerful combination of swimming, cycling and running that constantly challenges me to grow.
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I was born with cerebral palsy (CP), a neurological condition that affects my muscle control and coordination. For me, that means every movement takes more effort, more focus, and often more patience. But what some might call a limitation has actually shaped my resilience. CP doesn’t define me, my determination, mindset, and love for sport do.
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Through this website, I invite you into my world, my training, competitions, goals and growth. You'll learn who I am, what I stand for and where I’m going. For me, success isn’t just about medals. It’s about showing up every day, pushing boundaries, and believing in what’s possible.
I don’t just want to perform, I want to inspire. To anyone who’s struggling, facing obstacles, or doubting themselves: I hope my story reminds you that you're capable of more than you think. With passion, courage, and the right people around you, anything is possible.
Together with my coach, my team, and everyone who supports me, I work every day to get better, stronger and closer to my dreams. I'm proud of what I’ve achieved like winning my very first World Triathlon Para Cup and I’m more motivated than ever for what’s ahead.
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Thank you for being here. Follow my journey, share the ride, and let’s inspire each other.
"The only limits that matter are the ones you choose to break."
Cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a condition caused by brain damage, usually occurring around or shortly after birth. This damage affects how the brain sends signals to the muscles, which makes movement harder, affecting balance, coordination, and muscle control.
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A common type of CP is spastic cerebral palsy, which is the form I have. With spasticity, your muscles tend to remain tight or stiff, even when you don't want them to. This is called spasticity, your muscles involuntarily contract, almost like they’re locked in place. Sometimes it feels like your muscles are stuck or like you have to work much harder to perform simple movements.
For me, this means my muscles tire or tighten more easily. I have to be extra mindful with my movements and train for better coordination. Simple tasks can take more energy, but that doesn’t stop me.
Spasticity looks different in everyone. Some people experience it mainly in their legs, while others may feel it on one side of their body or throughout.
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But what we all share is this: we learn to live with it, day by day.
CP doesn’t change, but I do.
With the right training, support, and mindset, I keep growing, getting stronger, and pushing my limits.
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