Sunday, November 19th, 2023.- At 38 years old, Maciel Sousa Santos feels confident in these Games. The BC2 boccia specialist will attempt to replicate his success in Chile, as he previously won the 2014 South American Championship on his only previous trip to the country. 

Hailing from Ceará, Santos competes in a category that includes athletes whose arm and hand capabilities often allow them to throw the ball over and under their heads with a variety of grips. 

"It's a very good experience to be here; I remember 2014 when I won the South American Championship. Being one of the favorites comes with a lot of responsibility. The main goal is to be at the top globally, and it motivates me to win the Parapan American gold again, just like I did at Lima," said the Brazilian. 

Santos' impressive track record includes not only the aforementioned achievements but also a gold medal at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London and a bronze at Tokyo 2020. 

Representing Team Brazil, Santos made his debut this morning, defeating Salvadoran Mario Sayes 16-0. Tomorrow at 3:30 p.m, he will face Argentinian Jonathan Darío Aquino. Currently, he leads Group B with two points, positioning himself as one of the favorites to advance to the next round. 


Written by José Tomás Lambert; translated by Rocio Rojas / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport 
Ph: Javier Valdés / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport