Kayak medallist throws awards on floor in protest – ‘the effort was mine alone’
Eriberto Gutierrez won Peru’s first Pan Am medal in canoeing but accused his hometown’s mayor of ‘turning his back’ on him
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Canoeist Eriberto Gutierrez wants Peru to make good on laws that it enacted to boost the country’s sporting achievements after the Pan Am Games medallist rejected an award from his hometown due to what he said was a lack of support.
Gutierrez was invited to a ceremony celebrating the city of Abancay’s heritage last Saturday, where the 30-year-old was to be feted for his bronze medal in the kayak cross competition at the Games in Santiago last month.
However, after receiving a diploma and medal at the event, Gutierrez hit out at Mayor Raul Pena before leaving the awards on the floor.
“How ironic to receive recognition when the effort was mine alone,” Gutierrez said in a video of the event posted on social media. “Really, Mr. Mayor, at the time you denied me support. All of you. This is my effort. Thank you very much.”
Gutierrez later said in a post on Facebook that the mayor had always “turned his back” on him and that laws to promote sport were simply “for decoration”.
The municipality of Abancay did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.
After the video went viral, Gutierrez received public praise and a crowdfunding campaign was organised to provide support.
“It wasn’t my intention for the video to go viral, and I don’t need that much money,” Gutierrez told Reuters on Wednesday.
“We are trying to reach an amount to be able to continue the training and if we can get some sports equipment too.
“I believe that sports laws should be put into practice, for the development and promotion of sport, so that we can bring achievements to Peru,” he added.
Gutierrez’s bronze was Peru’s first medal in canoeing at the Pan Am Games. The country won a total of 32 medals in Chile, including 10 gold, six silvers and 16 bronze medals.
Reuters
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments