Tuesday, November 21st, 2023.- Before departing for the Parapan American Games Santiago 2023 from his country, Ecuadorian athlete Sixto Moreta had set his sights on achieving the gold medal in the T13 5,000 meters (severe or moderate visual impairment). 

At the track of the Centro Atlético Mario Recordón, located in the National Stadium, the 31-year-old athlete from Tungurahua fulfilled his goal in his third participation in the continental event by winning the race with a time of 15’30’’42. 

Moreta, the only competitor with the assistance of a guide, outpaced his rivals, finishing more than 45 seconds ahead of his closest pursuer, American athlete Noah Scherf (16:17.00), who remained in second place for 12 and a half laps of the track. 

The bronze medal went to Brazilian athlete Sivaldo de Souza (16:33.60), while fourth place was secured by another American, Caleb Howard (18:10.92). 

This is the second Parapan American medal for the Ecuadorian, as he previously secured the silver medal in the same event at Lima 2019. 

"The third time's the charm," predicted Moreta, who aimed to overcome the regret he experienced at Toronto 2015 and Lima 2019, where he couldn't reach the top of the podium. And indeed, that's how it turned out in Santiago 2023. 

Shortly before his triumph, his compatriot Poleth Isamar Mendes obtained victory in the class 20 shot put, so Ecuador has now added two golds in this edition of the Parapan American Games. 

Written by Macarena Navias; translated by Vicente Valdivia / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport
Ph: Marcelo Hernández / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport