A lifetime spent in courtrooms discussing law and defending complex employment law cases: today, at 93 years old, lawyer Salvatore Trifirò, a senior figure among Italian employment law experts, takes on new challenges—the 60-metre sprint, a test of endurance, sweat, and physical limits. In a way, Trifirò (and those like him) could be considered colleagues of Usain Bolt. On Tuesday, March 25, Salvatore won the silver medal in the 60-metre race at the World Masters of Athletics in Alachua County, Florida, USA, clocking in at 13.51 seconds.

Recognised as one of the masters of employment law, Trifirò was targeted by terrorists in the 1970s and survived two assassination attempts.

When did your passion for international competitions begin?

“Two years ago, my personal trainer, Valerio Gaudio, encouraged me after noticing my speed and agility. That’s how I started, and in Ancona, I won the gold medal at the Italian Championships. I haven’t stopped since and have even moved on to international competitions.”

How often do you train?

“Every morning in the gym before heading to my office for a few hours, and in the afternoon, I train on the track at the Arena.”

Do you still work?

“Work is my passion. I started as a civil lawyer, then specialised in employment law under my mentor, Cesare Grassetti. Continuo a lavorare perché ogni giorno, negli incontri con i soci del mio studio, affrontiamo nuovi casi. C'è un'emozione intellettuale nel trovare soluzioni innovative e nel contribuire all'evoluzione del diritto del lavoro. Mi annoierei insopportabilmente se fossi inattivo.”

Come erano i concorrenti che ha affrontato in Florida?

“Molto forti, soprattutto l'atleta mongolo arrivato primo.”

Che tipo di dieta segue?

“Mangio di tutto, ma in piccole quantità.”

È stato preso di mira dai terroristi ma non si è mai arreso.

“Anche i giudici mi chiedevano: ‘Salvatore, perché continui?’ Ma non potevo fermarmi: era il mio lavoro. Senza determinazione e coraggio non si ottiene nulla nella vita.”

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