Angélica Espinoza: An example of perseverance and the future of Paralympic sports in Peru.

The story of Angélica Espinoza is a powerful testament to what perseverance, passion, and the right support can achieve. Born without her left arm, Angélica's journey has been filled with challenges, but also with opportunities that have transformed her life and that of her country. Her success in Parataekwondo has not only led her to win multiple gold medals at international championships but has also brought the Peruvian Paralympic delegation, the largest in the country's history, into the spotlight. In 2017, when Angélica was struggling to find her place in the world of sports, it was her encounter with Delicia Paredes and Yvonne de la Cruz from the Parataekwondo Committee that changed her trajectory. This decision to switch disciplines marked the beginning of a series of achievements that culminated in her recent victory at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. This triumph is not only a recognition of her talent and effort but also a symbol of what can be achieved when athletes receive the necessary support at the right time. Angélica's victory has sparked interest and admiration from the Peruvian public towards her fellow para-athletes who, despite structural and social limitations, have shown that courage and dedication can challenge any barrier. In Paris, the Peruvian Paralympic delegation has showcased its greatness with a team of 13 athletes, each of whom is breaking molds and leaving their mark on international sports. Rodrigo Santillán, for example, has already earned a diploma in para-swimming, and expectations are high for other athletes seeking medals. However, it is essential to reflect on what it means to be an athlete in Peru. While effort and dedication are vital, the reality is that many athletes, especially those facing disabilities, train under adverse conditions and are often alone in their struggle for success. The country's sports system must address these challenges and ensure that all talents, regardless of their physical condition, have the opportunity to shine. Angélica's story serves as a reminder that talent is not always found in the most visible places and that often it is hidden, waiting to be discovered and nurtured. The lack of adequate infrastructure, limited financial support, and insufficient attention to Paralympic sports are barriers that prevent other talents from emerging. It is crucial for authorities to take note of these challenges and work to create an environment conducive to the rise of more athletes like Angélica. The call to invest in sports not only refers to funding infrastructure and equipment but also to creating talent identification programs and training for coaches who can identify and develop athletes in all their dimensions. Investment in sports should be seen not just as an expense but as an investment in society, which can bring long-term benefits in terms of health, well-being, and national unity. Words of support and celebration for the achievements of our athletes must be accompanied by concrete actions. As mentioned earlier, honoring our athletes means working to ensure that others have the same opportunities they do. If Angélica and her teammates can achieve so much with so little support, how much more could be accomplished if they were provided with the backing they need? The story of Angélica Espinoza, then, is not only a celebration of her personal success but also a call to action. It is a reminder that sports have the power to transform lives and that every victory on the international stage reflects a much greater potential that deserves to be unlocked. And in this new era of attention towards Paralympic sports, it is the perfect time for our authorities to take the reins and elevate sports in our country, ensuring a bright future for all Peruvian athletes.