Francisco Boza encourages new Peruvian talents for the 2024 Olympic Games.

Francisco Boza, an icon of Peruvian sports and gold medalist at the Los Angeles 1984 Olympics, has shared his enthusiasm and confidence in the new generation of athletes who will represent the country at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games. In a recent conversation, the former shooter reflected on the evolution of sports in Peru and the potential of young talents, such as Nicolás Pacheco and Daniella Borda, who are seeking a medal in shooting. Boza, who received recognition from the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) in commemoration of his gold medal, expressed that his achievement not only represents a personal milestone but also reflects the progress of shooting sports in Peru. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the federation has managed to organize international competitions and train new athletes, contributing to the visibility and development of shooting in the country. The former athlete was optimistic about Nicolás Pacheco's results in Paris, who already earned an Olympic diploma at Tokyo 2020, and Daniella Borda, who is also in a good position. Boza emphasized the importance of the preparation they have received under the guidance of qualified coaches and the opportunity to compete in the mixed category, which provides them with more chances to reach the podium. "May luck be with us and guide us so that our country continues to achieve good results," he stated. Looking ahead, Boza also spoke about the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. He acknowledged that there is a significant challenge for the Pan American event and emphasized that investment in athletes must be a priority in the coming years. The infrastructure is ready, but the real challenge lies in providing the necessary support to athletes to maximize their performance. The medalist mentioned his desire to compete again in the upcoming Pan American and Olympic Games, reflecting his passion for the sport and his desire to continue contributing to it. Although he recognizes that age is a limiting factor, his enthusiasm for shooting remains intact, and he believes he can still contribute to the discipline. Additionally, Boza commented on the performance of race walker Kimberly García, who did not manage to reach the podium in her last competition. Despite the circumstances, the former athlete highlighted the importance of the recent performance of Evelyn Inga, who finished in a remarkable eighth place, underscoring the potential of Peruvian athletics on the international stage. Boza served as president of the Peruvian Sports Institute (IPD) and suggested that a National Race Walking Program, similar to others that have proven successful in the country, could boost this discipline. He cited examples from other countries that, through long-term programs, have achieved significant results, highlighting the importance of ongoing support for athletes. Regarding other competitors, Boza expressed confidence in the chances of Alonso Correa, who is one step away from winning a medal in surfing. He also mentioned other Peruvian athletes in disciplines like sailing, who are also fighting for a place on the podium. "If Alonso succeeds, it will be a medal that everyone will celebrate," he commented enthusiastically. Expectations are high for Peruvian athletes at Paris 2024, and Boza seems ready to continue supporting them from wherever he is. The story of his gold medal continues to inspire new generations, and his leadership in the shooting federation is a testament to the commitment to the development of sports in Peru. As the Olympic Games approach, hope and excitement for the achievements that Peruvian athletes could attain are also growing. Francisco Boza, with his experience and vision, remains a pillar in promoting the sports culture in the country, and his encouraging message resonates strongly with all those who dream of seeing Peru succeed on the international stage. Go Peru!