The Paralympic Games continue, showcasing the incredible performances of Mexican athletes. This time, it was Gloria Zarza's turn to shine, as she secured the top spot in the F54 shot put final with the best mark of the event. Hailing from the State of Mexico, Gloria earned Mexico's ninth medal at Paris 2024, and more importantly, the first gold.
Gloria's outstanding performance in the women's F54 shot put made the Mexican national anthem echo through the Paralympic grounds early this Monday, September 2nd. The athlete from the State of Mexico achieved a distance of 8.06 meters, clinching first place in her category.
Mexico's First Gold Medal Falls
Early on Monday, September 2nd, all of Mexico celebrated the achievement of its first gold medal at the Paris Paralympic Games. The medal was won by Gloria Zarza, who, at 40 years old, set the best mark in the shot put to secure first place. Gloria was the only athlete in the F54 category to reach 8 meters in the final.
The podium was completed by Elizabeth Rodrigues from Brazil, who threw 7.82 meters to win silver, and Nurjon Kurbanova from Uzbekistan, who reached 7.75 meters to take bronze. These two athletes, along with the competitor from the State of Mexico, received their medals in the City of Light.
Gloria Zarza's Second Paralympic Medal
Born in Zinacantepec, Gloria Zarza earned her second medal in the Paralympic Games, but this is the first time she has taken home gold. It’s important to note that Gloria represented Mexico in the same discipline and category at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, where she won silver. This time, with more experience and thorough preparation, Gloria managed to secure that coveted first place.
With this gold medal hanging around the neck of a Mexican athlete, all that's left is to wait for the final tally of medals for the Mexican representatives this September 2nd. So far, Mexico has accumulated one gold, three silver, and five bronze medals, placing the country in 31st position on the medal table.