Saturday, November 4th, 2023.- Sometimes pressure can complicate things for favorites, but that wasn't the case for Chilean Valentina Toro, who clinched the gold medal at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games after defeating Cuban Baurelys Torres in the female's -55 kilogram karate category.

In the group stage, the Chilean had a challenging start, losing her first match to Colombian Geraldin Peña (5-6). However, she regained her momentum with a victory over Canadian Hana Furamoto (no show), followed by wins against Argentine Giuliana Novak (6-4) and Paraguayan Yennifer Servín (8-0).

Next, came the semifinal fight, where Toro received strong support from a packed Contact Sports Center. With perfect concentration, she overcame the Brazilian Kelly Brandao 4-0, with four yukos.

The final match was against Cuban Baurelys Torres, who had defeated Colombian Geraldin Peña 8-3.

In the battle for the gold medal, Chilean Valentina Toro triumphed over Torres with a score of 8-0.

This way, Team Chile celebrates, as they add their 11th gold medal at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games.

Written by Carlos Silva Rojas; translated by Rocio Rojas / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport
Photo by Andrés Piña / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport