Guatemala made history in the Olympics as Adriana Ruano Oliva won the country’s first-ever gold medal in the women’s trap shooting event. Ruano Oliva, 29, broke the Olympic record by hitting 45 clays, surpassing the previous record of 43. Her victory was not only a personal triumph but also a tribute to her late father, who passed away in 2021, just before she competed in the Tokyo Olympics.
This remarkable achievement was celebrated by the people of Guatemala, with President Bernardo Arévalo expressing his pride and congratulations to Ruano Oliva on social media. The country had previously won only one Olympic medal, a silver in London in 2012, but in just two days, they tripled that total with Ruano Oliva’s gold and Jean Pierre Brol’s bronze in the men’s event.
Ruano Oliva’s journey to Olympic gold was a tale of resilience and determination. After a career-ending injury in gymnastics in 2011, she found a new passion in shooting and worked tirelessly to reach the pinnacle of her sport. Despite a challenging performance in Tokyo in 2021, she bounced back and secured the gold in 2024, showcasing her unwavering spirit and skill.
Her victory was not only a personal triumph but also a symbol of Guatemala’s growing presence in the world of sports. The country, which first competed in the Olympics in 1952, has steadily increased its participation and success on the international stage. Ruano Oliva’s gold medal win marked a significant moment in Guatemala’s Olympic history and brought immense pride to the nation.
As the national anthem of Guatemala played in the background and the country’s flag waved proudly in the stands, Ruano Oliva’s tears of joy and accomplishment captured the essence of the Olympic spirit. Her journey from last place in Tokyo to the top of the podium in Paris is a testament to her dedication and perseverance, inspiring athletes and fans around the world.
In a historic moment for Guatemala, Adriana Ruano Oliva etched her name in the annals of Olympic history with her groundbreaking gold medal win. Her remarkable journey from adversity to triumph serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the pursuit of excellence in sports. Congratulations to Ruano Oliva and Guatemala on this historic achievement!