Peruvians are brimming with excitement as they prepare for Kimberly García’s participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics. This remarkable racewalker is considered a top contender for the gold medal in the 20km event, and her performance will be closely watched by fans back home.
García’s journey has not been easy. After a challenging experience at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she had to withdraw from the race, she even contemplated retiring from the sport due to her disappointment. However, she chose to persevere, demonstrating unwavering determination and hard work in her training.
The hurdles she overcame have only intensified her resolve. García has captured the attention of the entire nation, with supporters hoping that her dedication will lead to a standout performance and possibly an Olympic gold medal. In her own words, she reflected on her Tokyo withdrawal, saying, “I didn’t do well. I had to drop out of the race, which had never happened to me before. That left a deep mark on me. I decided to give it all up and focus on other things. My family played a crucial role during that time, urging me not to quit.”
After taking some time to regroup, García returned to training with a renewed focus on achieving glory. Her resilience allowed her to overcome adversities, and she now looks forward to standing atop the podium at the upcoming Olympics in Paris.
Her recent successes lend significant credence to her gold medal aspirations. In 2022, García made history by winning gold in both the 20km and 35km races at the World Championships in Oregon. She continued her winning streak, securing numerous international titles and a gold medal at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games.
Thanks to her impressive achievements, García currently ranks as the number one athlete in the world for the 20km racewalk and aims to maintain this status in Paris 2024. She carries the weight of expectations as the leading hope for a medal in the Peruvian delegation, and the nation supports her unconditionally.
Although the opening ceremony for the Paris 2024 Olympics is set for July 26, García’s competition is still a few days away. She will compete in the women’s 20km racewalk alongside fellow Peruvian athletes Mary Luz Andía and Evelyn Inga, all vying for top placements.
This crucial event is scheduled for August 1 at 2:20 AM Peru time (9:20 AM in France) and will take place at the historic Trocadero Plaza in the heart of Paris.
Additionally, García will participate in the mixed relay event, teaming up with César Rodríguez for the 42km race on August 7 at 12:30 AM Peru time (7:30 AM in France).
The Peruvian delegation for the Paris 2024 Olympics comprises 26 athletes who will be led by flag bearers Juan Postigos and María Luisa Doig during the opening ceremony. The official ‘Team Perú’ includes 17 women and 9 men, representing the country across nine disciplines, including sailing, shooting, badminton, surfing, swimming, rowing, fencing, judo, and athletics. As the world watches, these athletes aim to make their mark and proudly represent Peru on the global stage.
Image and News Source: https://www.infobae.com/peru/deportes/2024/07/18/kimberly-garcia-en-los-juegos-olimpicos-paris-2024-dia-y-hora-de-su-participacion-en-marcha-atletica/
