Saturday, November 25th, 2023.- Venezuelan Naibys Morillo secured the gold at Santiago 2023 and set a new Parapan American record in the javelin throw category F46 (physical disability in upper limbs) with a throw of 39.15 meters. 

The bronze medalist at the recent Paris World Championships surpassed the previous record held by her compatriot Mariel Betancourt since Lima 2019 with a throw of 26.46 meters. 

"I feel very excited and grateful to God for giving me this medal with a record included. The journey was not easy because I suffered a severe injury in the third throw. I thought about abandoning the competition, but I kept believing in the Lord and achieved my goal. This achievement is dedicated to my mom, who is very proud of me, and to all of Venezuela," said the new Parapan American champion at the Centro Atlético Mario Recordón in the Estadio Nacional. 

The silver and bronze medals went to representatives from Mexico, Kenya Lozano (37.28), and Jennifer Villalobos (30.73). In fourth place was the American Danielle Kanas (25.78). 

Written by Marcelo López-Anaís Farías; translated by Rocio Rojas / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport 
Photo by Jonnahtan Oyarzún / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport