With palpable intensity on the cold morning, the athletes showcased in a tough and exciting competition. Each stroke was display of strength, technique, and determination, with the sole objective to secure a spot in tomorrow’s final. Qualifying wasn’t easy, and only the strongest and most perseverat managed to advance. Now, with their eyes set on the gold, their preparing for the ultimate challenge.
Around this atmosphere, the first qualifiers fighting for the gold medal emerged. The local athlete and flag bearer, Nicol Martinez, become the fastest in the women’s category with a time of 08:15:89, setting the beat of the first group of rowers.
Following up, in the men’s category and switching to a team competition, the Argentine duo Juan Jijón and Máximo Pacheco was an arrow over the Paraguay River, leading the morning with a time of 06:51:08.
A celebration wouldn’t be complete without the presses of locals and international spectators. A handful of souls turned into a crowd. On one side, a small group of Paraguayan fans cheered on the rowers representing their nation. Foreigners weren’t left behind, pushing every stroke of their own with the energy of their encouragement.
Today’s qualifiers will fight for the gold tomorrow in each of the modalities held on this day. Plus, new events will be introduced to enrich the experience of this beautiful sport at ASU2025.
