HISTORIC GOLD MEDAL AND NEW RECORD FOR 12-YEAR-OLD COLOMBIAN PARA SWIMMER

A few years ago, Sara Vargas’ life completely changed when she met her current coach, Stevens Ruíz, while competing in short stature tournaments in Bogotá. Since then, the Para swimmer followed a process that led her to qualify for the Lima 2019 Games and become the youngest Para athlete in the history of the Parapan American Games with achievements that astonish everyone. 

Even though her growth problem prevented her from gaining stature, her ambition always remained intact. This is her first major international event and she has already collected two medals and set Parapan American records.  Yesterday she surprised the spectators by winning the silver medal in the 400 m freestyle event and tonight she amazed her fans after winning the gold medal in the 50 m butterfly event in class S6.  

“I can’t explain how I feel. I still can’t believe it. I am thrilled with my first gold. Even though it was not my best time, I set a Parapan American record. I’m determined to improve because my biggest goal is to succeed at the Paralympic Games," said the new Para swimming star, who achieved better records in international events this year. 

Sara will compete in the 100 m backstroke and freestyle events, as well as in the 50 m freestyle competition and she is focused on reaching the podium again. Her coach says that we will see more of this Colombian Para athlete who impresses sports lovers. 

“Colombia has a swimmer for at least two more Olympic cycles at the highest level. She has an exceptional talent because she is also demanding and disciplined. We are preparing her integrally so that the pressure does not overcome her. There are not many Paralympic competitions in the world, so she even competes against swimmers who don’t have an impairment to perfect her skills,” said Stevens Ruíz.  

Sara Vargas will compete again on Thursday 29 at 17:18. To see her compete, you can buy your tickets starting at PEN 10. There will be a 50% discount for children under 18, senior citizens and people with an impairment. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket offices in VIDENA and in the eleven 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.