By Nick Gasparro
Chula Vista, CA – In a dazzling display of skill, determination, and unity, Team USA wrapped up the 2023 Parapan American Games in Santiago, Chile, with an outstanding performance that left an indelible mark on the seventh edition of this prestigious event. Over nine thrilling days, U.S. athletes showcased their prowess, securing a total of 166 medals – a testament to their commitment to excellence and the inclusivity of sports.
Team USA’s medal haul included an impressive 55 gold, 58 silver, and 53 bronze medals, firmly establishing their dominance across the 17 sports featured in the Games. The U.S. contingent, comprised of 240 athletes, demonstrated their versatility by medaling in 15 different sports, leaving an undeniable impact on the competition.
Parapan American Games Background:
The Parapan American Games, held every four years, serve as a crucial platform for nearly 2,000 athletes from 31 nations. The event not only fosters high-level continental competition but also provides pivotal qualification opportunities for the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris 2024. Santiago, Chile, played host to this extraordinary event for the first time in history from November 17 to 26. Organized by Panam Sports, the Americas Paralympic Committee, and the International Paralympic Committee, Santiago 2023 celebrated the spirit of inclusivity, bringing together diverse nations through the shared values of sport.
CVEATC Standout Performances:
Among the exceptional athletes who etched their names into Parapan American Games history, CVEATC resident athlete Miguel Jimenez-Vergara emerged as a star. Jimenez-Vergara’s phenomenal achievements in the T54 wheelchair racing category showcased his unparalleled skill and determination. He clinched the gold in the 1500 meters, adding two silver medals in the 5000 meters and 800 meters, respectively.
Beatriz Hatz’s outstanding performances also caught the attention of spectators. Hatz dominated the T64 category, claiming the gold in the 100 meters and long jump (T42/44). Additionally, she secured silver in the 200 meters and added a bronze in the universal 4×100-meter relay, contributing significantly to Team USA’s overall success.
CVEATC resident athlete Delaney Nolin also showcased her speed and agility in the T35 category. Nolin earned a well-deserved silver in the 200 meters and a bronze in the 100 meters, highlighting her dedication to excellence in para-athletics.
David Brown along with his guide Je’Von Hutchinson also came home with a bronze medal in the universal 4X100-meter relay, while also coming as close as you can get to the podium, finishing 4th in the men’s 100 meter T11 category.
Team USA’s Collective Triumph:
- Team USA’s remarkable achievements propelled them to a second-place finish in the overall medal count, standing behind Brazil and ahead of Colombia. With 159 American athletes gracing the Parapan Am podium, including 51 multi-medalists, the U.S. contingent proved their mettle in the largest multi-sporting event in the Americas.
- Four outstanding U.S. athletes – Ian Seidenfeld, Tahl Leibovitz, Jenson Van Emburgh, and Dana Mathewson – earned direct qualifications for the Paralympic Games in Paris 2024, showcasing the depth of talent within Team USA.
- Following their medal-winning performances in Santiago, Team USA will send four teams to Paris next summer. The U.S. men’s and women’s basketball teams, along with the wheelchair rugby team, clinched gold, while the men’s goalball team secured silver, ensuring direct team qualifications for the 2024 Paralympic Games.
- The U.S. also secured quota slots for Paris in shooting and archery, highlighting the team’s diversity of talent. Team USA displayed dominance by sweeping the podium six times in Santiago, achieving top-three finishes in cycling, shooting, swimming, and track and field.
- Notably, nine athletes set new Parapan American records during the competition, further emphasizing the caliber of performances witnessed in Santiago.
In closing, Team USA’s dazzling showcase at the 2023 Parapan American Games in Santiago not only marked a historic triumph but also symbolized the spirit of inclusivity and excellence in para-athletics. With an extraordinary total of 166 medals, including 55 gold, 58 silver, and 53 bronze, the U.S. contingent’s versatility and commitment to excellence were on full display across 15 different sports. From the standout performances of athletes like Miguel Jimenez-Vergara, Beatriz Hatz, and Delaney Nolin to the collective triumph that secured a second-place finish in the overall medal count, Team USA demonstrated unwavering dedication.
Noteworthy achievements, such as direct qualifications for Paris 2024 and securing quota slots in shooting and archery, showcase the depth of talent within the team. As Team USA sets its sights on the Paralympic Games in Paris, the legacy of Santiago 2023 will be remembered as a testament to the resilience, unity, and remarkable achievements of para-athletes who continue to inspire a global audience. Full results from the Parapan Am Games can be found at Santiago 2023
