Peruvian athletes shine in Paris 2024 and mark a milestone in national athletics.

The recent performance of Peruvian athletes in the 20 km race walk during the Paris 2024 Olympics has left an indelible mark on the history of national athletics. With the thrilling arrival of Evelyn Inga in eighth place, the country celebrates an unprecedented milestone, as this result not only marks an improvement in Peru's historical standing in the Olympics but also represents a personal triumph for each of the competitors who have faced significant challenges on their path to sporting glory. Evelyn Inga has achieved a remarkable performance, not only for her position but also for the adversity she has overcome to get here. The athlete from Huancayo, who moved to Arequipa to refine her technique, has had to deal with hypothyroidism and follow a strict nutritional regimen. Her dedication and hard work have allowed her not only to compete but to shine on such a demanding stage as the Olympics. Her eighth place is undoubtedly a reflection of her hard effort and commitment. Mary Luz Andía has also made her mark in Paris, finishing in 12th place. Her journey has not been without difficulties, as she has faced a lack of institutional support that nearly sidelined her from her Olympic dream. Nevertheless, the arrival of her daughter gave her new strength to not only return to competition but to do so at a level that has led her to match a historic position in Peruvian athletics. The emotion of her arrival, with tears in her eyes, is a testament to a struggle that transcends sports. The fact that Peru has managed to place three athletes in the top 16 of this competition is a cause for celebration. As Giorgio Mautino, an athletics expert, has pointed out, this achievement is comparable to that of Spain, another country that has excelled in this event. Highlighting that the previous best historical placement was 12th in the discus throw by Eduardo Julve Ciriaco in London 1948 puts the magnitude of the current achievement into perspective. For her part, Kimberly García, who arrived with great expectations, had to deal with a tough competition that led her to an unexpected 16th place. The athlete, who had shone at the Tokyo 2020 Games, expressed disappointment at not being able to reproduce the expected performance, noting that she couldn't "find good feelings" during the event. However, her determination and desire for redemption could bring her new opportunities, especially with the possibility of participating in relays in the future. The road to Paris 2024 has not been easy for these athletes. Inga and Andía have had to fight against a lack of institutional and financial support in a context where women's sports in Peru still do not receive the recognition they deserve. Despite these obstacles, the courage and resilience of these athletes have been evident in every step they have taken in the competition. The achievements of these three women should serve as inspiration not only for future generations of athletes but also for a country that needs to recognize and value the talent it has at home. The history of Peruvian athletics is at a crossroads, where these results can mark a turning point for greater investment in the development of athletes across all disciplines. Moreover, media attention and community support can play a crucial role in the growth of athletics in Peru. With an eye on future international events, it is essential to build an environment that fosters talent and discipline, allowing more Peruvians to feel inspired to follow in the footsteps of Inga, Andía, and García. As the echoes of Olympic glory resonate, it is imperative to remember that every performance in these games is a story of overcoming, sacrifice, and dedication. These athletes not only compete for medals but to leave a lasting mark in the hearts of all Peruvians. Thus, the legacy of Paris 2024 could be the awakening of a new chapter in Peruvian sports, where hope and ambition intertwine to create a future full of possibilities.