Matt Bevilacqua and Brielle Cooper used IVF genetic technology for son Beau
Matt Bevilacqua is one of Tasmania’s most successful and popular sportsmen. The world champion ironman speaks about becoming a father for the first time.
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There was never any doubt Beau Peter Bevilacqua would be a water baby.
His parents, Tasmanian born Matt Bevilacqua and his wife Brielle Cooper are both champion iron athletes.
Bevilacqua, 33, a world champion, has told how their son was born using cutting edge genetic IVF technology.
For the popular and much-loved ironman nothing comes close to being a father.
Beau, who is “doing really well” was born on May 28 on the Gold Coast and the trio were looking forward to going home on Sunday.
“We put him in the bath last night and he was right at home in the water as he should be,” Bevilacqua said.
“That’s what he was born to do pretty much.
“Brielle was born to be a mum and Beau is crushing it.
“Both mum and Beau are just killing it and looking forward to getting home.”
Cooper, 26, was just 18 when she became the youngest female iron woman to win an iron series.
The couple won championships on the same day in 2018.
Bevilacqua says being a dad is better than winning a world championship.
“This is the most amazing feeling. I couldn’t even have imagined what it’s like to become a dad.
“It’s been a pretty awesome few days that’s for sure.
“That dopamine rush the moment they’re born and that whole process — I don’t think I’ll ever experience a high like that ever.
“I’ve had a few of them. This one is by so far the top, it doesn’t even compare.”
Beau’s middle name of Peter is in honour of Matt’s beloved grandfather who died in March this year.
Peter Bevilacqua played football for Carlton in the VFL and was a respected teacher.
“My granddad was just a really massive figure in my life, an incredible man and a really good family man and devoted to his profession and just a really good idol for me growing up.
“Hopefully Beau can grow up knowing of his namesake and hold some similar values and understand how amazing family can be to guide you.”
The couple used IVF genetic technology to ensure Beau did not inherit Matt’s genetic skin condition, epidermolysis bullosa, or EB.
Bevilacqua is an ambassador for charity, Debra Australia, which he said “supported us to undergo this genetic IVF and have a beautiful baby boy without the skin condition”.
“So the buck stops with him there, I was always going to pass it on.”
Bevilacqua said EB, which can cause the skin to blister and tear easily, led him into the surf because wearing football boots was hard on his feet.
“Beau will be able to put footy boots on just fine. Hopefully he has granddad’s genes
Originally published as Matt Bevilacqua and Brielle Cooper used IVF genetic technology for son Beau
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