The great Callao Regional Sports Village, one of the most important and impressive sport venues of Lima 2019, hosted a glorious session of Para taekwondo on its last day of competition.

Throughout two sessions filled with adrenaline, the first from 09:00 to 12:45 and the second from 15:00 to 18:30, an unconditional audience encouraged our representatives, Shiroy Rentería (men’s k44 -75 kg category) and José Navarro (men’s K44 +75 kg category), as well as the other representatives of the continent with great enthusiasm.

Rentería managed to dispute, without success, the bronze medal against Argentinian Juan Samorano, after he was defeated 25-03 by the Costa Rican Andrés Molina in his first fight. However, in the repechage round, he beat USA’s Michael Kacer 27-15.

The Para athletes who finally reached the medal table: Mexican Juan García (gold), Cuban Adrián García (silver), Argentinian Juan Samorano (bronze), and Costa Rican Andrés Molina (bronze).

As for the category in which Navarro participated, the ones who reached the podium were: USA’s Evan Medell (gold), Mexicans Francisco Pedroza (silver) and Edgar Torres (bronze), and USA’s Johnny Birch (bronze).

In the women’s K44 +58 kg category, which was also disputed today, the Para athletes who won medals were: Mexican Daniela Martínez (gold), and Brazilians Debora Bezerra (silver) and Leylianne Samara (bronze).

It is worth mentioning that in these Lima 2019 Games, Para taekwondo had its Parapan American debut; only one year before being included as a Paralympic sport in Tokyo 2020 for the first time.

In Lima 2019, the Para taekwondo competitions gathered a total of 47 Para athletes from 16 countries. The medals won by Angélica Espinoza (gold) and William Fernández (bronze) stay at home.

He was present right from the start of the competition, rooting for Pedro Pablo de Vinatea that was playing for the gold. The President of the Republic of Peru, Martín Vizcarra, attended the Para badminton final of the men’s SL3 category. 

The Head of State watched the exciting match next to Carlos Neuhaus, president of the Lima 2019 Organizing Committee, and Andrew Parsons, president of the International Paralympic Committee.

The Sports Center 3 was completely packed with fans, including members of Peru’s official fanbase, “La blanquirroja”, who gave a Peruvian flag to the President before the match. 

After Peru claimed the gold, the whole sports center erupted in cheers, while the spectators gave a thunderous round of applause to the Para athlete.  

Moreover, Vizcarra had the honor of handing over the gold medal to Pedro Pablo de Vinatea, a moment filled with emotions that made the VIDENA vibrate with excitement. 

Brazil is unstoppable. After the gold medal obtained yesterday in football 5-a-side, Brazil picked another gold in football 7-a-side today after an exciting and vibrant final held at the Villa María del Triunfo Sports Center.

Although Argentina scored the first goal, the first-half finished with a tie 1-1. Brazil stepped up its game in the second-half and, goal after goal, ended up winning with a score of 5-3.

The stars of the match were the Brazilian midfielders Ubirajara Da Silva, who scored three goals, and Evandro de Oliveira, who scored two. The defenders Pablo Molina and Rodrigo Lucía, as well as the midfielder Nicola Billordo, scored the goals for the Argentinian team.

In the stands, the spectators were also engaged in another competition. Chanting and screaming, the fanbases of both teams never stopped cheering on their favorite, even more so when they scored a goal.

On the other hand, in a match held hours before, the United States dismissed 7-0 Venezuela, taking home the gold medal.

It is worth mentioning that football 7-a-side is a sport adapted for athletes with cerebral palsy and/or traumatic brain injuries, and it follows the rules established by FIFA. This game is played on a reduced field, and teams are made up of seven players, including the goalkeeper. There is no “offside” rule, and throw-ins or rolling the ball back onto the field of play are allowed.

The Para badminton final held at the Sports Center 2 of the VIDENA was both epic and exciting! Raúl Anguiano achieved a milestone in the history of the Guatemalan Para sport, by claiming their first medal in the Parapan American Games.

On Friday Anguiano has already given a reason to celebrate to the Guatemalan people as he qualified to the finals and took a medal in the individual SL4 category. In the final, he dismissed 2-0 Oliveira, with partials of 21- 16 and 21-12, and could not hide his excitement for this victory and dedicated it to his family.

“It’s amazing. It’s a blessing. Winning a medal is both a huge honor and responsibility because when you are an athlete, you become a public figure,” said the current Parapan American champion.

They already knew each other, and the statistics were on the Guatemalan’s favor, which eventually reflected in the match result. “It’s the fifth time we face each other, and he’s improved a lot. He’s very talented, but I was more relaxed. I’m sure he’ll be a great champion too,” he stressed while his delegation friends cheered on him, just like they did during the match.

“Playing in an environment like this was very important for me. I had never had so much support. It’s exciting to listen to your friends from other sports, technical teams and managers encouraging you. This victory is not only mine; it’s also theirs because they were an essential part of the match,” he added.

Anguiano started playing when he was 10. He used to play conventional badminton until he discovered Para badminton and was considered the world’s number 1 at some point. At age 44, he arrived at Lima 2019 as flag bearer of his delegation and praised the growth of Para badminton in Peru. Meanwhile, Team Peru hopes to reach the top of the podium in Para badminton with Pedro Pablo de Vinatea. 

“I was the first player of this sport in our region. That’s how I met my friend Pedro Pablo de Vinatea. I’m happy to see Para badminton has grown a lot in Peru, and I’d like it to grow more in my country too, just like it’s happening here,” he concluded.

The story behind each medal won by the four Para athletes, during the press conference about the Lima 2019closing ceremony, is the true reflection that everything is possible in life. Peruvian athletes Israel Hilario and Angélica Espinoza, Colombian Angélica Bernal, as well as Brazilian Verónica Hipólito, showed their immense gratitude with the organization of the Parapan American Games.

Hilario (Para cycling) and Espinoza (Para taekwondo) won two gold medals for Peru yesterday and thrilled the fans. Hilario achieved a better record in the time trial event, despite competing in an integrated race against opponents with a lesser physical impairment. The athlete from Huánuco thanked Lima 2019.

“These Parapan American Games became a very important vehicle for social inclusion, because athletes with an impairment have demonstrated that we are productive and represent Peru with dignity,” said Hilario, Lima 2019 Ambassador, who won gold in Para road cycling. 

Likewise, Espinoza stated that Lima 2019 became one more reason for hope for the Para athletes. “With these Games it was demonstrated that many things can be improved with opportunities, because we have always had spirit and sacrifice, and surely in Santiago 2023 you will see a more important delegation in terms of results,” she mentioned.

The story of Brazilian Hipólito is moving. After overcoming 203 benign tumors that made her unable to train since 2007, she reached the last quota for Lima 2019 in the final stretch. Not even the two head surgeries that prostrated her two years in bed could with her energy. She will take home three silver medals and the affection of Peru.

“I enjoyed these Games more than the ones in Toronto because I literally came back from nowhere. Doctors said I could not compete again and winning a medal was illogical. Life brought me to Peru and I leave grateful to everyone and my message is that sport is only the first step for an inclusive society. We can regain happiness with sport,” stated Veronica, a former world and Parapan American champion.

Finally, Colombian Bernabe, who won gold and silver medal in wheelchair tennis (singles and doubles) also obtained a quota for Tokyo 2020. She never gave up despite losing her right leg and today is among the best in the Americas. “Peru did a great job of inclusion that could be imitated by other countries,” she said.

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons said Lima has positioned itself as the epicenter of the world’s Paralympic Movement, thus leaving an invaluable legacy for Peru and the world community.

“There is a before and after the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games,” stated in a press conference, accompanied by the COPAL President Carlos Neuhaus, and the President of the Americas Paralympic Committee (APC) Julio César Ávila.

“Lima 2019 has transformed sports into a social transformation tool. I have no doubt that when I come back to this beautiful country, I will find a more inclusive society with equal opportunities for people with an impairment,” Parsons said and highlighted that a very high bar is set for Chile 2023.

Additionally, the IPC President praised a shift in awareness in the society regarding impairment, which created an inclusive atmosphere, where Para athletes have greater options for development and are considered role models that will inspire bravery and hope to future generations. Lima 2019 honored by the Americas Paralympic Committee. 

“In Peru, the future of Paralympic sports is already guaranteed. The sports centers have permanent accessibility conditions for Para athletes. Also, the population now recognizes them as heroes who teach that everything is possible with effort and dedication,” he remarked.   

The Americas Paralympic Committee (APC) President Julio César Ávila thanked the Lima 2019 Organizing Committee President Carlos Neuhaus for holding the most spectacular Para sports event in the continent with a countless number of world records.  

“These have been the biggest Games I’ve ever attended. Important records have been broken, such as ticket sales. However, the most significant thing is the impact on the society of Lima that has now a different attitude towards impairment, considering it as a continuous source of inspiration,” the APC President affirmed. 

In that sense, Lima 2019 marks a milestone in the history of the world’s Paralympic Movement, fostering the Paralympic values in Peru and around the globe, thus laying the foundations to develop a more inclusive and egalitarian community in the Americas, where the slogan Let’s all play! has been immortalized.

Carlos Neuhaus, the Lima 2019 Organizing Committee (COPAL) president, said that all the organization is very satisfied by the great results that the Lima 2019 Pan American and Parapan American Games will leave.

During a press conference, he said that one of the big legacies of this event is that it contributed to the unity among the participating athletes of numerous countries and different sports disciplines.

He ensured that the Lima 2019 will be the most remembered Games by athletes and Peruvians because they are leaving an important mark for Peru and all the Americas.

Neuhaus was so satisfied by the answer of the Peruvian public that attended the sports venues to support our athletes. It resulted in the sale of more than 130,000 tickets. In addition, he ensured that the Lima 2019 Pan American Games leave a positive balance. 

The COPAL President also highlighted that hundreds of students have witnessed this historic edition of the Games in Lima thanks to the free tickets that allow the public school students to attend the different competitions.

Also, he reaffirmed the very special gratitude to the thousands of volunteers of all ages and nationalities who always spent their time smiling and being kind to help the athletes and the general public.

This way, the Lima 2019 Pan American and Parapan American Games end with a positive balance because they joined all cultures from the Americas, through the sport, putting the world’s spotlight on Peru with the phrase that will remain in our minds: “Let’s all play”.

Julio César Ávila, President of the Americas Paralympic Committee, and Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee, were also present at the press conference. Furthermore, the Parapan American medalists Verónica Hipólito from Brazil (Para athletics), María Angélica Bernal (wheelchair tennis), Israel Hilario (Para-cycling) and Angélica Espinoza (Para taekwondo) also attended this conference.

Galería de fotos (clic aquí)

The Para athlete had previously obtained one victory and two losses. Therefore, the Peruvian Para badminton player Jesús Salvá knew that this was his chance to claim the bronze medal in the SS6 category, and he did not blow it.

In a tight match filled with emotions at the Sports Center 3 of the National Sports Village (VIDENA), located in the San Luis district, the Peruvian beat the Canadian Wyatt Lightfoot by 21-14, 14-21 and 21-9 after a 40-minute game.

Salvá even had to recover from a hit in his arm, but the crowd’s support got him to finish off the game. After his victory, he told Lima 2019 he was thrilled with his victory. He considered it a rematch since he had already faced Lightfoot in the quarterfinals of the last Pan Am Para Badminton Championships. “I did it,” stressed the Para athlete, letting go of all the emotion he had kept inside.

“There’s always the pressure that the victory may slip away (from your hands), but luckily I managed to get overcome this feeling and I won,” added Jesús, when talking about the sensations that he went through when his opponent evened the game 1-1.

ON THE ROAD TO TOKYO 2020

He also looked happy and grateful for the support he received from the fans during this decisive match and pointed out that he needs to train hard to obtain a ticket to the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

“I want to be there, and I will be there,” concluded Jesús, another outstanding Peruvian Para athlete who added one more medal for Peru in the medal table of the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games.

On the other side, early on in the morning, our compatriot Pablo Cueto put in his best effort to claim the bronze medal in the SL4 category, with the support of the best fanbase in the world, who did not stop cheering on him from the stands of the Sports Center 3 at the VIDENA and chanting “Peru, Peru, Peru”. Unfortunately, he ended up losing 21-6 and 21-4 after a 17-minute game. 

This Sunday, September 1, after ten days of top-level competitions, the Parapan American Games come to an end. This is why the Lima 2019 Organizing Committee and the Peruvian National Police (PNP)  provide information about the traffic restrictions on streets adjacent to the National Sports Village – VIDENA, where the closing ceremony will take place.

The Organizing Committee also informed that the precinct’s gates will open at 17:00 and recommends not to arrive in vehicles, as no parking spots will be available.

Spectators will entry through Videna’s gate No. 10, located at Avenida Canadá, which caused the PNP to implement traffic restrictions on adjacent streets, which will be in force from 17:00 to 23:59 on September 1.

The traffic restriction plan will be as follows:

1. One lane closed at Avenida Aviación, near VIDENA’s gate No. 13, until Avenida Del Aire.
2. Two lanes closed at Avenida Del Aire, eastbound, from the intersection with Avenida Aviación until Avenida San Luis.
3. At Avenida San Luis, southbound, vehicular traffic will be restricted in two lanes, from the intersection with Avenida Del Aire until Avenida Canadá.
4. Two lanes closed at Avenida Canadá, westbound, from Avenida San Luis until Avenida De la Arqueología.

Likewise, they informed that diversion routes will be established during such restriction time, which will be: Southbound, Avenida Aviación to Avenida San Juan, continuing until the intersection with Avenida San Luis, then following the usual route.

Another option for vehicles is going down Avenida Del Aire, eastbound, then southbound through Avenida Agustín de la Rosa Toronto, and taking Avenida Julio Bailetti, then going the usual route.

What to do before going to VIDENA?

VIDENA’s gates will open at 15:30 and people will enter on a first-come, first-served basis. Sits are not numbered. Your National ID (DNI) and ticket will be required to enter. All minors under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Everyone is invited to this Closing Ceremony to witness the artistic performance of over 200 people under the direction of Juan Carlos Fisher and with music of Laguna Pai and Hermanos Yaipén, with Eva Ayllón as special guest.

Liduvina and Nicolas are just two examples of the great social legacy that the Lima 2019 Volunteer Program will leave for Peru thanks to the commitment and the time all volunteers dedicated, so that the Pan American and Parapan American Games are a success in our country and obtain recognition from all countries.

Liduvina Sanchez is 62 years old and decided to devote her life to Para swimming when she was 58. Despite of the short training time, she has obtained several achievements. This year she traveled to Brazil to participate in the International Lottery Open Caixa 2019 and brought three bronze medals home.

Her life changed almost completely. She used to work at the Supreme Council of Military Justice, but after being ceased in her job due to its permanent impairment, she transformed Para swimming into her passion, and now she dedicates her time to train every day since she is part of the National Paralympic Association.

There is nothing impossible for Liduvina. When she was one year old, she was infected with polio, but she has always tried to live a normal life thanks to the support of her parents.

When she heard about the Lima 2019 Volunteer Program, she did not hesitate for one minute to participate and split her time between swimming practices and volunteering. “So far, this has been a beautiful experience. I’ve worked in different areas, with an excellent group of partners, and I’ve also interacted with all medalists. That’s something I never thought that would happen,” said Liduvina very excited.

She is happy to have been part of the Lima 2019 group of volunteers and for the gestures of gratitude of all athletes, who will return to their countries with the best impression of Peru thanks to the volunteers.

NICOLAS MEZA ON THE ROAD TO BECOME A PARA ATHLETE

Nicolas Meza is 31 years old and, for him, to use crutches is not a problem when performing several activities since he helps his father in a family business. He also speaks multiple languages and he likes giving classes.

Nevertheless, while being part of the Lima 2019 Volunteer Program, he found out that he wants to become a Para athlete, so once the Parapan American Games finish, he will dedicate his time to practice Para badminton and Para swimming. For sure, we are anticipating hearing his name on the news and his achievements for our country.

Being a volunteer made him proud since he learned a lot and performed different duties on the court, stands, athlete areas, press zone, etc.

“I’m proud of assisting these Games and that Peru hosted such a large sporting that promotes sport values in our society. It has been an honor. I’m very thankful for this opportunity” mentioned the young volunteer.

He also recommended all people with an impairment to move forward because there is nothing they cannot do. Everything is up to us and to our faith in God and our families.

The Lima 2019 volunteers are people from Peru and abroad. They represent the social legacy that the Pan American and Parapan American Games leave for Peru and allow people to be prepared for both national and international future events.

SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF THE VOLUNTEERS

The contribution of the volunteers was essential for the Lima 2019 Pan American Games success and was widely recognized by Panam Sports (Pan American Sport Organization).

Angela Morales, head of the Lima 2019 Volunteer Program, revealed that 5000 volunteers participated in the Parapan American Games in different sport venues and operative roles.

It should be noted that a total of 104 people with an impairment were part of the Lima 2019 Volunteer Program during the Pan American Games (50 women and 54 men), while 79 people with some sort of impairment participated in the Parapan American Games (45 women and 34 men), making a total of 183.

She specified that a total of 11,900 volunteers took part in the Pan American Games. Around 85% of them were young people between 18 and 25 years old, and 60% were women. This numbers also show the contribution that the Lima 2019 Volunteer Program has left to our country.

Morales said 630 volunteers between 16 and 17 years old were part of the program and fulfilled their roles successfully. Meanwhile, about 480 volunteers came from different parts of the world such as Germany, United States, Brazil, Argentina, Japan, etc.

It is also worth mentioning that approximately 600 participants were senior citizen, who gave all their time and humble disposition to assist these Games.