Spain has etched its name in history at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, as Alvaro Martin and Maria Perez emerged as resounding champions in the race walking category.
The duo’s triumphant performances on August 24 have ignited a surge of national pride across Spain. Alvaro Martin, a force to be reckoned with in the men’s 20km race, once again showcased his mastery by executing a well-timed surge at the pivotal 5km mark.
Locked in a captivating tussle with Ecuador’s Brian Daniel Pintado for the lead, the 29-year-old Spanish athlete exhibited unwavering determination.
His relentless pace secured him the 35km title, accompanied by an extraordinary personal best and a national record of 2 hours 24 minutes 30 seconds.
Pintado displayed remarkable grit, crossing the finish line a mere four seconds later to claim the silver medal. Meanwhile, last year’s World Championships runner-up, Tomohiro Noda, clinched the bronze in 2:25:50.
The heartwarming scene unfolded as Alvaro Martin patiently awaited Maria Perez at the finish line. Perez’s dominance was on full display in the women’s 35km race, as she not only seized victory but also set a fresh Championships record, completing the grueling course in an astounding 2:38:40.
Peru’s Kimberly Garcia Leon secured the second spot in 2:40:52, followed by the experienced Greek walker Antigoni Ntrismpioti, 39, who secured the third position in 2:43:22. Perez’s indomitable spirit captured hearts as she engaged with the crowd, offering waves and cheers during the penultimate lap.
Her focus sharpened when she realized another kilometer remained. The 27-year-old champion disclosed that hamstring issues had nearly led her to withdraw after her triumph in the 20km event. Yet, her sheer willpower propelled her onward.
Perez adeptly managed her technique, maintaining a steady and measured rhythm to safeguard her hamstring, ultimately conquering the last 4-5km with calculated precision. Notably, Perez also boasts the world record of 2:37:15 over this formidable distance.
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