Spain’s Alvaro Martin and Maria Perez Win Marathon Race Walk Mixed Relay Gold

Spain’s Race Walking Triumph at Paris 2024

On Wednesday, July 7, at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Spain’s Álvarez and María Pérez clinched gold in the Mixed Relay 20 km race walk, showcasing an extraordinary performance in the newest athletics event on the Olympic schedule.

Just six days after securing individual medals—Álvarez with bronze and Pérez with silver—the Spanish duo emerged victorious in the relay with a time of 2:50:31. Their victory was marked by a thrilling race, beginning in the Trocadero neighborhood and circling the Eiffel Tower.

Ecuador took the lead early, with Brian Pintado adding a silver medal to his gold from the men’s 20 km walk. The Ecuadorian team finished in 2:51:22, nearly a minute ahead of Spain. Australia’s Rhydian Cowley and Jemima Montag earned bronze with a time of 2:51:38.

The race was closely contested. Spain was part of the leading group at the start, with Álvarez pacing the team. By the 10 km mark, Germany’s Christopher Linke had the lead, followed closely by Álvarez and Pintado. The handoff was crucial, with Kimberly Garcia of Peru turning a 40-second deficit into a strong performance, closing in on Pérez and Italy’s Antonella Palmisano.

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As the relay progressed, Spain and Ecuador were neck and neck, with Pérez and Ecuador’s Glenda Morejon fighting for the top positions. Pérez’s strong performance in the final leg ensured Spain’s gold medal, finishing in 2:50:31. Australia’s Montag secured silver, and Italy’s Palmisano fell behind, with the final standings placing Peru fourth in 2:51:56, Brazil fifth in 2:54:08, and Japan sixth in 2:55:40.

Álvarez reflected on the historic win, acknowledging the hard-fought battle and celebrating Spain’s achievement. “It’s incredible,” he said. “To win another Olympic medal is amazing, especially for Spanish race walking.”

Pérez, marking a significant milestone in Spanish sports, was elated: “It’s special because this triple crown is the first of its kind for Spain. Sharing this victory with Álvarez makes it even more memorable.”

The triumph in Paris not only highlights the duo’s remarkable athleticism but also etches their names in Olympic history.