Author: Lima 2019 press release Lima, 1 September 2019

PERU PLACES AMONG THE TOP EIGHT OF THE CONTINENT IN 200 M FREESTYLE PARA SWIMMING

Peruvian Para athlete Dunia Felices placed fifth in the final. She is planning to win in the upcoming international events, like the London 2019 World Para Swimming Championships.

Dunia

The Peruvian Para swimming delegation writes a new chapter in the Peruvian history of this competition alongside the exceptional and awarded Dunia Felices. She took a place among the top eight of the Americas in women’s 200 m freestyle final.

Dunia was confident to be on the top of the Parapan American Games and to get a spot in the podium for Peru because it was her fourth consecutive final and, the day before, she won a bronze medal in 50 m butterfly.

In this regard, the stands of the Aquatic Center of the National Sports Village were filled with Peruvian vibes to cheer the performance of the Peruvian Para athlete, who got her classification in the morning to this daunting final. She was in third place of her group with a time of 3:52.41, just a few seconds behind the Brazilian Esthefany de Olivera and Joana Jaciara.

The Peruvian Para swimmer gave her best in the final, and placed fifth with 3:52.11. Brazilian Joana Jaciara da Silva won the gold medal with 3:14.71. The silver medal was for the American Alyssa Gialamas and the bronze medal was awarded to the Brazilian Esthefany de Oliveira.

She said that even if she did not get a medal in this competition it is a preparation to other international events. “Competing again the 200 meters freestyle gave me more experience for the London 2019 World Para Swimming Championships, which is in 10 days,” the Lima 2019 Ambassador stressed with a lot of hope.

She added that the unconditional support of the fans is a inspiration to her career in this Para sport. “While I was swimming, I listened to the cheers that made me keep going. After I left the pool, it was thrilling see my school friends, my family and all the Peruvian fans. Thanks to all your support I accomplished everything,” she expressed with excitement.

Therefore, the praiseworthy participation of the Peruvian Para athletes at Lima 2019 is evidence of a Paralympic heritage. This will be a source of inspiration for the future generations of Peruvians, knowing that everything is possible when there is courage and determination.