Gladys Tejeda confidently prepares for her fourth Olympic Games in Paris.

Gladys Tejeda, one of the most prominent figures in Peruvian athletics, is just a few days away from participating in her fourth Olympic Games, set to take place in Paris in 2024. With experience gained from three previous editions—London 2012, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2020—Tejeda has shared her reflections on how her preparation and mindset have evolved over time, setting high expectations for this new competition. The Peruvian athlete highlights the difference she feels in this edition, especially compared to Tokyo, where the effects of the pandemic complicated her experience. "This year, a different event is taking place, returning everything to normal," she says. The maturity and experience she has gained over the years have been fundamental to her development as an athlete, providing her with a more secure and confident approach. Tejeda has been training intensively in the United States, at a camp located near Phoenix, where the hot weather conditions are favorable for marathon training. She asserts that preparing for a marathon requires a commitment of several months, and she has been working on her physical and mental fitness for over four months to arrive in optimal condition. "I am very confident in the work I have been doing," she adds, reflecting her conviction in the process. One of the keys to her preparation has been managing her health and emotional well-being. Tejeda has emphasized the importance of arriving at the competition in the best physical and mental shape. "When I arrive very well in terms of health, mood, and psychology, that will greatly define the competition in Paris," she indicates, demonstrating her understanding of the pressure involved in running a 42-kilometer marathon. The path to Paris has been marked by a strategic focus, where her previous experience allows her to handle different situations that may arise during the race. "This competition is not new, and I can manage things that happen during the marathon in one way or another," she explains, highlighting her ability to adapt to the event's conditions and competition. However, the possibility of winning a medal is always present in an athlete's mind. Tejeda is aware of the tough competition posed by African runners, who have dominated marathon athletics. Still, she is determined to give her best: "I have trained a lot, and I have always liked to give my best until the end." For Tejeda, these Olympic Games will also be special due to the presence of her family, who will support her in Paris. This emotional aspect becomes an additional driving force for her performance. Her recognition that 60% of a competition at this level is training and 40% is mental highlights the complexity of the sport and the importance of comprehensive preparation. Looking to the future, the Peruvian athlete is excited about what will come after Paris 2024. Although her main focus is the marathon, she asserts that there are other competitions on the horizon, and her career will not end with these Games. "I will be active," she states, mentioning the possibility of participating in the Bolivarian Games and the Pan American Games in Lima 2027. Tejeda does not dismiss the possibility of continuing to compete in future editions of the Olympic Games, including Los Angeles 2028. Her desire to complete five Olympic cycles reflects her ambition and dedication to the sport. "Everything is possible, and it depends on how one arrives, it depends on how one envisions the future," she concludes, leaving the door open to new opportunities. Finally, her message to other athletes representing Peru in Paris is one of pride and encouragement. Tejeda acknowledges the collective effort of "Team Peru" and the importance of fighting for the dreams and goals that each athlete has set for themselves. With her resilient attitude and focus on excellence, Gladys Tejeda stands out as an example for future generations of Peruvian athletes.