December 17, 2024, 7:05 PM
December 17, 2024, 7:05 PM
Erick Bravo and Sandra Straube raised the name of Bolivia in the World Cup Oceanman Dubai 2024, in the United Arab Emirates, where they achieved gold and silver medals, respectively, in the open water discipline. The event took place over the weekend, at Kite Beach.
Erick Bravo, born in La Paz and currently living in Vietnam, was the first to cross the finish line in the demanding 10,000 meter test, category 30 to 39 years. He climbed to the top of the podium and at all times wore the red, yellow and green.
Bravo made a time of two hours, 51 minutes. He was followed by the Ecuadorian Andrés Conto (3h00’25”), who was second, and the Argentine Daniel Paz (3h04’42”), who was in third position.
For her part, Sandra Straube from Santa Cruz took part in the 2,000 meter competition, category 50 to 59 years old, in which she placed second and therefore won the silver medal.
The event brought together more than 2,200 swimmers, representing 90 countries, consolidating itself as one of the most important championships in the world in this discipline.
Straube shared the podium with the Italian Silvia Canazza, winner of the test, and the Mexican Karla Frutos, who took third place.
The woman from Santa Cruz stopped the clock at 38 minutes and 56 seconds, a record that reflects her dedication and good performance.
A third Bolivian took part in the event, Óscar Chávez from La Paz, who finished the men’s 10,000 meters, but could not make the podium.
The Oceanman 2024 circuit included a total of 26 competitions in 20 countries, such as Spain, Greece, Mexico, Italy and Thailand. The world final in Dubai not only brought together the best swimmers of the year, but also gave competitors the opportunity to perfect their technique and preparation.
In the case of Sandra Straube, she had the support and training of the Dutch Sharon van Rouwendaal, Olympic medalist and world leader in long-distance events.
These achievements demonstrate Bolivia’s growth in open water sports, inspiring new generations of swimmers.
