TULUM, México — In an emotional and special recognition event, the Zamna Tulum Foundation honored young para-athletes from the Toshonos Civil Association who won medals at the 2024 Conade National Paralympic Games in Oaxaca. The event, held at Blue Venado in the coastal zone, was attended by Tulum’s municipal president, Diego Castañón Trejo.
The gathering aimed to recognize the hard work, dedication, and achievements of these young athletes who, through sports, have shown remarkable resilience and courage. Their participation in sports has brought them individual success and served as a testament to their perseverance, inspiring the entire community.
Outstanding Athletes
Among the athletes celebrated, several excelled in various disciplines, particularly javelin, discus, club throw, and shot put. Ilian Aracely Poot Navarrete earned a gold medal in the shot put and a bronze medal in the club throw. Saúl Ek Ucán claimed third place in the javelin throw, while David Alonso Martínez García secured fourth place in three events: discus, shot put, and javelin.
These athletes have stood out in their respective categories, achieving success despite facing significant physical challenges. David Alonso Martínez García competes in the F21 category and is a young man with Down syndrome who shone in the javelin throw. Likewise, Saúl Ek Ucán, competing in the F34 category, impressed in the same discipline. Ilian Aracely Poot Navarrete, in the F31 category, demonstrated incredible strength and skill in both the shot put and the club throw.
The Support of Zamna Foundation and Local Sports Clubs
The honored athletes are part of Club Deportivo Rabbits Tulum and Club Deportivo Rabbits RM, both under the guidance of coach Antonio Andrade. Andrade’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping their athletic abilities and encouraging their personal growth, proving that discipline and dedication can lead to great accomplishments.
At the event, Alejandra Orozco, head of public relations and management for the Zamna Tulum Foundation, highlighted the community’s pride in these athletes’ achievements. Orozco emphasized that the foundation will continue to support other children and young people with disabilities who are dedicated to sports, reaffirming its commitment to inclusion and the athletic development of Tulum’s youth.
A Promising Future for Inclusive Sports
The gathering at Blue Venado celebrated the athletes’ successes and powerfully demonstrated the positive impact sports can have on the lives of young people with disabilities. Through their effort and determination, these para-athletes have overcome challenges in both sports and daily life, showing that with the proper support, there are no limits to what can be achieved.
Their journey represents the culmination of years of perseverance, and their accomplishments serve as an example for others, motivating the community to continue promoting inclusivity in sports. The recognition by the Zamna Tulum Foundation underscores the importance of creating spaces where all young people, regardless of their physical condition, can strive for excellence.
As the event ended, the sense of pride and admiration was palpable. The path these athletes have forged sets a high standard for future competitions and the broader movement toward greater inclusion and support for athletes with disabilities in Tulum and beyond.
This celebration was a reminder that success in sports is not merely about winning medals but about the courage to compete, the resilience to push through challenges, and the strength to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
