Friday, November 24th, 2023.- Second time stepping onto the track at the Centro Atlético Mario Recordón of the Estadio Nacional, and second time securing victory at these Parapan American Games.

That could very well be the summary of Argentine Araceli Rotela's participation in Santiago 2023, after she claimed the gold medal in the 100 meters T36 (cerebral palsy) on Friday, her second triumph this week following her win in the 200 meters on Wednesday.

She was followed by her compatriot Yanina Martínez (14.51 seconds), who came in as the reigning champion of the continental event. Completing the podium was Colombian Martha Hernández (14.97 seconds).

"Araceli is very happy, especially since she surpassed her own record," said her coach Lisandro Muhoberac, who acts as an interpreter because Rotela, born in Paraguay 19 years ago but settled in Necochea since childhood, is deaf and communicates using sign language.

In the 400 meters T47 (physical disability in upper limbs), Brazilian Fernanda da Silva won with a time of 56.89 seconds, breaking the Parapan American record and securing her second gold medal in this edition of the continental event after her victory in the 400 meters on Wednesday.

Writte by Macarena Navias; translated by Paulette Bertín / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport
Photo by Marcelo Hernández / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport