"Peru shines at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games with historic achievements and hope."

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games have become a standout event not only for the diversity of disciplines and the talent of the athletes but also for the achievements that are marking a turning point in the history of Peruvian sports. In this context, para-cyclist Israel Hilario has emerged as one of the most emblematic figures by adding a new Olympic diploma to our nation. With his recent performance in the C2 time trial, Hilario has demonstrated that effort and sacrifice bear fruit, and that Paralympic sports in Peru are gaining the recognition they deserve. Hilario finished the competition in sixth place, with a time of 21:28.46, thus consolidating his position among the best in the world in para-cycling. This outstanding performance not only allows him to bring home a new diploma but also reflects the dedication and perseverance he has exhibited throughout his career. The event was fiercely contested, with local athlete Alexandre Léauté taking gold, closely followed by Belgian Ewoud Vromant and Australian Darren Hicks. This Olympic diploma represents Hilario's third recognition of this kind, placing him in a privileged position in the history of Peruvian para-cycling, equaling the sixth place he had already achieved in the previous Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Games. His journey is a testament to the hard work required to reach such a high competitive level and also serves as a symbol of hope for future generations of athletes who identify with his struggle and success. Hilario's performance adds to the achievements of the Peruvian Paralympic delegation, which has shone in Paris with a total of nine Olympic diplomas, surpassing the performance in Tokyo 2020, where they secured one gold medal and five diplomas. This progress is a clear indication of the growth of Paralympic sports in the country and the increasing investment in training programs and support for athletes with disabilities. Additionally, it is important to mention Angélica Espinoza, who became the champion in para-taekwondo, contributing to the gold medal that further elevates the morale of the delegation. These achievements are not only a source of national pride but also contribute to the visibility and acceptance of adaptive sports in our society. The support from the public and institutions has also been crucial on this path to success. Each diploma, each medal, each achievement of our Paralympic athletes serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering a culture of inclusion and respect for people with disabilities. The visibility that these athletes are gaining is not only important for their personal and professional development but can also inspire others to follow in their footsteps. The successes in Paris 2024 do not belong solely to the athletes; they are a collective triumph of all those who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, from coaches to family members and friends who have provided unwavering support. It is essential to recognize that each achievement is the result of a joint effort and the determination not to give up in the face of adversity. As the days of competition progress, the hope that more successes will continue to be harvested for the Peruvian delegation grows. The achievements obtained so far are just the beginning of a story that seeks to reaffirm the country's commitment to inclusive sports and the promotion of opportunities for all. With each medal and diploma, Peru is writing a new narrative in the sporting arena, one that celebrates overcoming challenges, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of its athletes. In these moments, the country unites around its representatives, applauding their efforts and dreaming of future victories that will continue to elevate the name of Peru on the international stage.