Juan Tapia Choque, from Arica, is a 28-year-old young athlete, a kinesiology student, who has practiced this sport since childhood and recently won a gold medal in the 66-kilo category at the “Rio 2022 Deaflympics”, held in Brazil.
After his arrival in Arica, he met with the parliamentarian, from whom he asked for support to continue his sports career, since although he is very happy with the achievements, these have been the result of a great personal and family effort.
“All my training and sports expenses are paid for by me, I work and study. I would like them to recognize my achievements just as they recognize the listeners, to support me in continuing training to obtain more triumphs, representing my country. I am the first deaf athlete to win an Olympics for the deaf”, said the athlete.
“Last year, when I went to France, I asked for help and there was nothing. Now, despite everything, I arrived with an Olympic medal, I hope there is more support to continue training”, detailed the judoka.
Congressman Enrique Lee pointed out that “meeting Juan is an injection of energy. His personal story is really admirable and teaches us that no matter how difficult it may seem, we can always fulfill our dreams. This is why we promised him and his family to accompany him to knock on all the doors that are necessary for the State to support, as it should, this elite athlete from Arica who represents our country in the world”.
“Next week, I will ask the sports commission to receive him, so that they know his story, and at the same time I will make arrangements with the sports minister to jointly seek some form of direct support for Juan. And it is that imagine how difficult it is to be an athlete in Chile, if we add to this that he lives in one end of the country, and also with a hearing disability, “added the parliamentarian.
“Today we are called to clear all kinds of barriers and add greater social inclusion. So, not only do I congratulate this tremendous athlete from Arica, but we promise not to leave him alone”, concluded Lee.
Juan is preparing for the World Cup and Olympics in Tokyo, where he hopes to position Chile at the top of the podium.
