In the heart of America, Asunción, Paraguay, is preparing for the closing of the II Junior Pan American Games. The event, which brings together more than 4,000 athletes from 41 countries, has witnessed emotional, curious, and even unusual moments that will be etched in memory.
Highlighted Moments in the Games
The athletes, the true protagonists, have given their hearts in every competition. Smiles and tears have emerged, along with situations that have generated debate amidst the sporting passion.
Swimming Gold Tie
Swimming gave us an unexpected ending. Stephanie Balduccini from Brazil and Isabella Bedoya from Colombia tied in the 50-meter freestyle, with a time of 25.42 seconds. This result not only gave them the shared gold medal, but also a new junior Pan American record, securing their place in the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima.
I am speechless, very happy; I cried while singing the anthem out of emotion. Getting this gold with a tie with the Brazilian swimmer is wonderful.
Isabella Bedoya
Marriage Proposal in Judo
Love also had its space in the games. Braian Rodríguez, from the team of the Paraguayan Judo Federation, surprised his girlfriend Kimberly Rivera, technical delegate of judo, with a marriage proposal. The romantic moment, musicalized with ‘Perfect’ by Ed Sheeran, moved the audience.
The Weather Doesn’t Stop the Competition
The weather was another challenge for the athletes. Despite the thunderstorms and heavy rain, the race walkers showed their determination. Colombian Miguel Peña took the gold medal in the 20,000 meters, surpassing Ecuadorian Saúl Wamputsrik and Mexican Brandon Pérez.
Controversial Disqualification in Cycling
The Argentinian cyclist Mateo Kalejman, winner of the gold medal in the individual time trial, was disqualified for alleged irregularities in his bicycle. This decision generated controversy, with accusations of “boycott” and “corruption”. The Colombian Samuel Flórez took the gold.
Cuban Athletes Defection
On August 14, it was reported that four Cuban athletes left the concentration of their delegation. Paraguay’s Interior Minister, Enrique Riera, stated that it was a possible case of desertion.
