The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games they closed this Sunday with Spain in 15th place of the medal table with a total of 36 podiums, five more than in Rio 2016, and a breakdown of 9 golds, 15 silvers and 12 bronzes, divided into seven sports, always with swimming in the lead, with 14 metals. Marta Fernández, the most awarded With a gold, a silver and a bronze, he carried the flag at the Closing. The disgust that tarnishes the harvest came from Teresa Perales, who has stayed in Japan with a picture of anxiety. The mythical swimmer, recent Princess of Asturias, arrived in Japan with a lot of pressure, with a shoulder injury that prevented a good preparation and with the challenge of matching the 28 Olympic medals of Michael Phelps, a feat that Jessica Long has achieved. After hanging a silver, he has stayed at one, he is 27, but he has already warned that he will return in Paris 2024. His career in sport has always been an example for his infinite successes, but also for his struggle to achieve them and for his personal growth. Teresa, if you don’t reach that record, we’re going to love you just the same.
The words “example”, “fight” and “overcoming” are the ones that best define these athletes. Teresa is. And Marta, the new queen. And also Susana rodriguez, doctor in pandemic, cover of Time and gold in triathlon. AND Michelle alonso, champion and world record. AND Sarai Gascon, who has added two more medals for a total of eight, only missing his persecuted gold. And the cyclists Alfonso Cabello and Sergio Garrote, both with a gold and a bronze in Tokyo. AND Adiaratou Iglesias, the new sensation of athletics, with a gold and a silver. AND Nuria Marqués, at the time AS Sports Award, here a double medalist in the pool. Are the 29 Spanish athletes who have been on the podium, 11 of them debutants, a nod to the future. And so are all those who have participated, Spanish or not, for their dedication on the road and at the finish line.
