"Resurgence of Peruvian Sports: Olympic Achievements that Inspire Hope"

The recent performance of our athletes at the Olympic Games has ignited a spark of hope and pride in the hearts of many Peruvians. Yesterday, the achievement of Stefano Peschiera in winning the bronze medal in sailing, 32 years after Juan Giha claimed silver in Barcelona 1992, reminds us of the potential we have as a nation in the sports arena. This achievement not only represents an individual victory but also a resurgence of Peruvian sports on an international level. Stefano's story is that of many other athletes who, without the support of a solid system, have had to fight against adversity to represent their country. In a nation where support for elite athletes is scarce, these young individuals have been forced to rely heavily on their own efforts and the support of their families. Often, they knock on doors seeking funding, facing a landscape where opportunities are limited and difficulties are the norm. The Peruvian delegation at Paris 2024, composed of 26 athletes, has stood out not only for their results but also for the stories of perseverance they represent. Each one of them carries a unique narrative of sacrifice and determination. María Belén Bazo, for example, was just a step away from the podium in windsurfing, earning an Olympic diploma that reflects her dedication. Her story, like many others, is a reminder that the path to sporting success is filled with obstacles that go beyond physical training. Alonso Correa's fourth place in surfing is another testament to the reality faced by our athletes. His coach, 'Magoo' de la Rosa, revealed that just a few years ago, he had no sponsors, highlighting the lack of institutional and private support that translates into a constant struggle to secure resources to compete at the highest level. The experiences of Evelyn Inga and Mary Luz Andía in race walking are equally significant. While Evelyn battled hypothyroidism that limits her performance, Mary Luz was removed from the Athlete Support Program, an event that underscores the fragility of the backing our athletes receive. Despite these adversities, both managed to position themselves among the best in the world, further demonstrating that Peruvian talent shines even in the most challenging circumstances. No less noteworthy are the fourth places of Kimberly García and César Rodríguez in the relay race walking, who showed that, regardless of their final position, they have achieved a remarkable feat by qualifying for the Olympic Games. This recognition of their effort is essential, as each of these athletes not only represents themselves but also a country seeking its place on the global sports scene. The question that arises is: how can we give back to these athletes and ensure that more like them emerge? The answer lies in the need to create favorable conditions for the development of sports in Peru. This task is not solely the responsibility of the state; it is also crucial for the private sector to actively participate in sponsoring and supporting our athletes. Although some brands have already begun to sponsor our representatives, the reality is that there is still a long way to go. It is imperative that both civil society and institutions understand that sports not only enhance the country's image but are also a powerful tool for the comprehensive development of our youth, helping them acquire fundamental values that can transform lives. Promoting sports at the national level should not be just an Olympic goal but a permanent commitment. The growing participation in events such as the Lima 2019 Pan American and Parapan American Games demonstrated the immense potential we have when we unite around a common cause. The upcoming 2027 Olympic Games must be leveraged to foster a sports culture that benefits everyone, from the youngest to elite athletes. At the end of the day, the stories of our Olympians should cease to be tales of individuals forging their path in solitude and instead become a symbol of what can be achieved when a country comes together for a shared goal. We thank these athletes for their unwavering spirit and dedication, for they are the ones who inspire us to move forward and build a more promising future for all.