Poleth Mandez and Guarin Samuel Shines At Para Athletics: Santiago 2023

The Centro Atlético Mario Recordón stadium came alive as Para athletics events took center stage at the Santiago 2023 Parapan American Games.

In the F20 Women’s Shot-put, Virtus and Paralympic Champion, Poleth Mandez, threw her way to gold, displaying sheer dominance. Not only did she secure the top spot with throws of 13.81m, 13.84m, and 13.91m, but she also shattered her own Parapan Am record not once, but thrice. A phenomenal feat that left spectators in awe.

Padilla Grecely Eliany (ECU) and Vivenes Diana Carolina (DOM) claimed the silver and bronze. Vivenes won the second medal for Dominic Republic from the games, making her win a historical one.

The T20 Men’s 1500m was no less thrilling, with Guarin Samuel (COL), Michael Patrick Barber (CAN), Carmelo Rivera (PUR), and Luis Arturo Paiva (VEN) battling it out. In a nail-biting finish, Guarin Samuel stormed across the finish line in 4:10.71 sec, securing the gold.

Michael Patrick Barber, who clinched the silver, shared his excitement,

“I really wanted to come out here and improve what happened four years ago, so I can’t complain. This silver is a testament to hard work and determination.”

Barber who finished sixth in Lima 2019, was thrilled to win the silver.

“I was really happy with it, I really wanted to come out here and improve what happened four years ago, so I can’t complain,” Barber told Canadian Paralympic Committee.

Carmelo Rivera made history by winning Puerto Rico’s first medal at the games. Rivera reflected on his journey, saying,

“In the race of life, trust that God is guiding you every step of the way. Challenges are opportunities to demonstrate your strength, knowing that he is on your side.”

More actions are coming up from both para-athletics and para-swimming venues today from Santiago 2023.

Full results can be accessed from Santiago 2023 website.