ARGENTINIAN PARA ATHLETE IS THE FAITHFUL REFLECTION THAT NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE

Four years ago, she left her name engraved in the history of Argentinian sport. That time, at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, the Para athlete Yanina Martínez won the 100 m event (class T36 for people with cerebral palsy). That gold medal placed Argentina at the top of the podium, after two decades of absence. Her impairment never limited her and now she proudly carries the Argentinian flag. 

Nevertheless, the challenges still continue for her and Lima 2019 is the first step to repeat her Paralympic achievement in Tokyo 2020. This afternoon, with tears in her eyes, she celebrated her two gold medals in the 100 and 200 m events, repeating what she achieved in Toronto 2015. But that is not all, if she makes it to the final of the 4x100 relay tonight, she could reach an historic third gold medal at the Games. 

“Yanina really wanted to be in Lima 2019, because she considers it a very beautiful event and, for that reason, she prepared with effort, showing an extraordinary love for athletics. There have been many years of hard work, which has been giving achievements since Guadalajara 2011 and we are very happy,” said her coach Martín Arroyo. 

Since the age of 11, Arroyo has been training the Argentinian Olympic champion as part of a physical education program. He encouraged her to practice sports, playing with balls and running short distances. As the years went by, he was surprised by her dedication until she became a top athlete in 2010. They both spend a lot of time together, since they work double shifts, which generated a family connection. 

Yanina is grateful for the good treatment of Peruvians. She really enjoys the food and the good atmosphere with her teammates in the Parapan American Village. “Lima 2019 will remain in my heart. I am very happy with the two gold medals and I want to dedicate them to my mom and my coach because I love them very much,” said the champion. 

CHEER ON THEM FROM THE GRANDSTANDS 

If you want to see these wonderful athletes, tomorrow is the last day starting at 15:00. Buy your tickets starting at PEN 10. There will be a 50% discount for children under 18, senior citizens and people with an impairment. You can buy tickets in the ticket offices at VIDENA and in the 11 authorized points of sale throughout the city. 

Tickets can also be purchased online at lima2019.pe/tickets, where you will also find the detailed competition schedule. In the case of e-tickets, printing will no longer be necessary since customers can show their e-ticket from their mobile phones at the entrance of the sports venue.