SERGIO “EL CHECHO” IBARRA AND OTHER PUBLIC FIGURES CARRY THE TORCH IN CHICLAYO

Chiclayo. Historic, tireless and very charismatic. A huge smile was drawn on Sergio “El Checho” Ibarra’s face while he carried the torch in one hand and, with the other, greeted the audience from Chiclayo. He was the highlight of the day. The historic goal scorer of Peruvian football had the privilege of carrying the Pan American Flame in an environment full of support and encouragement shouts.  
 
He ran 500 meters, 300 more than what any torchbearer usually runs for the relay. In this way, he proved that he remains in top shape at his age. “I am very grateful, nervous and excited. I was born in Argentina, but I have been living in Peru for more than 26 years. My heart is Peruvian and I am proud of carrying the torch, considering the importance of the Pan American Games.” This time, “El Checho” scored a goal out of the court and we are sure that it will be one of the greatest in his admirable career. 
 
Daniela Fernández shines with her own light. Widely experienced sports journalist of great charisma and news presenter on a well-known private sports channel, Fernández was also chosen to carry the flame that lights us all in Chiclayo. “I feel proud and excited. We are talking about the Pan American Torch! It's nice to be able to participate in this,” said Daniela who ran 200 meters with the Flame that burned as fiery as her naturalness and kindness. 
 
George Edward Díaz Enríquez is the 2018 Karate and Martial Arts World Champion of the IMAT Open Elite Series, which was held in Buenos Aires. He has also participated in the Aztec Intercontinental Championship in Aguas Calientes, Mexico, last June. He's 26 years old and is an outstanding athlete and instructor, as well as Chiclayo's favorite son and pride of Peru, and he was also chosen to be a torchbearer. “I am very happy to participate in the relay. I would advise teenagers to practice sports because it is one of the best choices in life.” 
 
Jannet Sofía Irigoyen Muñoz is 43 years old and a true role model for her dedication and strength. The poliomyelitis left irreparable damages on her. However, she, like hundreds of people, has managed to live like everyone else. Devoted to sports and social work for many years, Jannet was chosen by the Chiclayo Regional Government to be a torchbearer in recognition of her tireless work as an activist for people with an impairment in Peru. “We only want our rights to be recognized and respected. I will continue fighting each day to achieve this goal. Carrying the torch is an honor and I do it not only for myself, but also on behalf of all people with an impairment in Peru."