Wednesday, November 22nd, 2023.- During the second day of Para Athletics at Santiago 2023, the audience at the Centro Atlético Mario Recordón in Estadio Nacional was captivated by the intense competition between Brazilian Sandro Varelo and Dominican Francisco Cedeño in the F55 shot put (seated category).

However, the highlight of the event was yet to come with Wallace de Oliveira dos Santos, the world, Paralympic, and Parapan American champion in the discipline.

And the Brazilian did not disappoint.

With his first throw, he secured the victory: 11.31 meters. This already surpassed Venezuelan Jackson José Blanco, who had thrown earlier and achieved 10.78 meters, securing the silver.

Furthermore, he also confirmed himself as the new owner of the continental record that he set in Lima 2019 with 11.08 meters (his personal best, and global best, is 12.63).

A consistent series of good throws culminated in his final attempt, registering 11.46 meters, which will now stand as the best in the Parapan American competition.

"The feeling of winning a medal is very significant because a lot of work goes into achieving it. I am very happy. Winning again and setting a record is sensational," said De Oliveira.

For the last spot on the podium, Brazilian Sandro Varelo, bronze in Lima 2019, had a close contest with Dominican Francisco Cedeño, the silver medalist four years ago, whom he surpassed by 17 centimeters (10.10 meters against 9.93).

Written by Macarena Navias; translated by Paulette Bertín / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport
Photo by Javier Salvo / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport