Peru celebrates its growth in Olympic medals and national sports legacy.

The Olympic diploma is a recognition that, while it may seem secondary compared to the gold, silver, and bronze medals, plays a fundamental role in the sporting realm. This prestigious document is awarded to athletes who achieve the highest positions in their respective competitions within the Olympic Games, referring to those who place from first to eighth, according to the regulations established since the Los Angeles 1984 Games. This recognition not only represents a sporting achievement but also becomes a symbol of the effort, dedication, and sacrifice involved in practicing sports at a competitive level. Throughout Olympic history, Peru has had a remarkable path in obtaining diplomas. In the recent Tokyo 2020 edition, the country matched its record of four diplomas, a figure that dates back to the Mexico 1968 Olympic Games. However, looking at the landscape of Peruvian participation in these events over 32 years, a significant improvement in the number of recognitions obtained is noticeable. Since Juan Giha's silver medal in 1992, the country has been accumulating diplomas, reaching a total of 9 diplomas in seven editions leading up to the Paris 2024 Games. This increase in the acquisition of Olympic diplomas reflects not only the individual growth of Peruvian athletes but also an evolution in the infrastructure and support provided to sports in the country. The presence of figures like Stefano Peschiera, who recently became the fifth Peruvian medalist in Olympic history, is a clear example of this progress. His success in sailing adds a new chapter to Peru's rich history in the Olympic movement. The Olympic diploma, which was originally awarded only to champions, has evolved over time. Since its establishment in the modern Olympic Games, the awarding has expanded to recognize more athletes. This change has allowed a greater number of Peruvian athletes to feel valued for their achievements, encouraging new generations to follow the path of high-performance sports. The awarding of the Olympic diploma is not a mere formality. This document, which is designed in a particular way and bears the signature of the president of the Peruvian Olympic Committee and the head of the Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games, is a tangible testament to the success achieved. Furthermore, the diploma is complemented by the right of the laureates to use the initials OLY, serving as a constant reminder of their commitment to the values of Olympism. However, it is important to highlight that recognition also carries responsibilities. Awarded athletes must adhere to the Code of Ethics of the International Olympic Committee and the World Anti-Doping Code. In the event of sanctions, these athletes are obliged to return the diploma, which adds a layer of seriousness to the award and reinforces the integrity of the sport. The history of the Olympic diploma is rich and interconnected with the evolution of the Olympic Games themselves. From its establishment to reward the best competitors to its expansion to include more athletes, the diploma has become a symbol of achievement and recognition worldwide. For Peruvians, each diploma obtained is a source of national pride and an inspiration for future generations of athletes. The awarding of diplomas at Olympic editions, as seen in Paris 2024, is a celebration that transcends the purely competitive. While medalists take home physical prizes, the diploma becomes a legacy that athletes can proudly display. In the Peruvian context, this tradition serves as a catalyst to motivate young people to engage in sports, with the hope that in future Olympic editions, they can raise the country's flag even higher. In conclusion, the Olympic diploma is more than just a simple recognition; it is a reflection of the collective effort of a country striving to stand out in the realm of sports. The improvement in Peru's results over the years is a testament to the potential still to be discovered and developed in Peruvian athletes, who continue to fight for their dreams and for the pride of their nation on the Olympic stage.