Peruvian delegation of 13 athletes prepares for Paris 2024.

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games are just around the corner, and the excitement is not only focused on the magnitude of the competition but also on the impressive group of para-athletes who will represent Peru. This year, the Andean country will send the largest delegation in its history, composed of 13 athletes competing in eight sports disciplines. This milestone reflects the growth of the Paralympic movement in Peru and the dedication of these athletes, who challenge physical limitations and become examples of perseverance. The first emblematic figure is Angélica Espinoza, who, after facing a congenital physical disability, has become the face of Peruvian para-sports. Her journey began at London 2012, and since then, she has traveled a path filled with sacrifices. Her love for taekwondo led her to become the first Paralympic champion in this discipline, winning a gold medal at Tokyo 2020 and reaffirming her status as a two-time Pan American champion. Now, at just 26 years old, she heads to Paris with the ambition of adding another title to her impressive record. Another inspiring story is that of Daniela Campos, who, despite being born with spina bifida, has found her true passion in para archery. Her dedication led her to become Peru's first Paralympic archer by winning a gold medal at the Santiago 2023 Parapan American Games. Her story is not only a testament to sporting excellence but also to the intersection of art and sport, as she is also dedicated to fashion design with a focus on inclusion. Rodrigo Santillán is another young talent who has demonstrated his worth in para swimming. Since his debut at the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games, where he won a bronze medal, to his participation in Tokyo 2020, he has been on a constant rise. Now, at 19 years old, he arrives in Paris with the strength of having secured three medals at Santiago 2023, looking to make his mark on the international stage. The case of Jorge Arcela is a story of pure resilience; a survivor of an ambush, he found a new purpose in para shooting. His path to the Paralympic Games was solidified after winning several medals at major competitions, including a standout performance at the World Cup in India, which secured his ticket to Paris. Arcela aims not only to compete but also to become a symbol of overcoming adversity for all those who have faced challenges. Pilar Jáuregui, the most decorated para-badminton player in Peru's history, is one of the favorites to bring home a medal. A multiple championship winner, she has built an impressive career in this sport, excelling in the Parapan American Games and being recognized globally. With her competitive spirit and a track record that supports her commitment, her participation in Paris promises to be thrilling. Para athletics will also have outstanding representatives, such as Rosbil Guillén, who has proven to be a force on the track since his debut at the Parapan Americans. With medals to his name and an indomitable motivation, Guillén seeks not only a podium finish but also to inspire others to follow in his footsteps. His story of transformation and perseverance exemplifies that there are no limits when determination is present. Similarly, Niurka, the world champion in boccia, is ready to make history in Paris. Her success in the sport, combined with her dedication, has led her to be recognized as one of the best in her category, achieving gold at the World Championships in Brazil 2023. Her participation in the Paralympic Games will mark a significant milestone as she becomes the first boccia representative from Peru. Israel Quispe, who will compete in para powerlifting, and Diego, the talented young man with dwarfism who has also excelled in football, are other examples of the diversity and commitment that characterize this delegation. Both have worked hard to get to this point and are ready to represent Peru on a stage that reflects the effort and dedication of all para-athletes. Finally, we cannot forget Dunia Felices, who, after losing her limbs due to illness, found a new passion in para swimming. Her efforts have not only taken her to compete internationally but have also made her an ambassador for para-sports, motivating others to find their path through inclusion and overcoming challenges. The Peruvian delegation competing at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games is not just a group of athletes; they are true heroes who, through their life stories, teach us that adversity can be overcome and that dreams are achievable. These 13 para-athletes will not only represent their country but also embody a powerful message: in sports, as in life, nothing is impossible.