Yuliana Bolivar starred in one of the most emotional images of the last day of competition at the Pan American Games Lima 2019. The judoka, born in Venezuela and Peruvian naturalized, won the bronze medal in her discipline in the +78kg category after defeating American Nina Kutro-Kelly.
Minutes after her valuable success, Yuliana Bolivar spoke to the press and showed her happiness, amidst tears. "It's a very hard work for months. I left many things behind to get here. I had tough, intense trainings. I have to manage the emotion of being away from my family," said the athlete.
Likewise, the 29-year-old judoka was impressed by the support she received during her performance. "I'm very impressed by having a Peruvian family backing me up. I think that's the most significant thing, that even though my blood family is not here, I have that Peruvian support, and thanks to them I could keep going, I could keep going... This medal is for them," she added.
The emotional words of Yuliana Bolivar after winning bronze for Peru in judo. (Capture and video: Movistar Deportes)
On the other hand, Bolivar made it clear that her victory and the bronze medal are also thanks to the entire team's work. "This is the result not only of my performance, but of many people who are behind... my teammates, my coaches, the physiotherapist, the doctor, the nutritionist. I'm truly excited to have represented them well and that their work has also been worthwhile," she said.
Finally, the judoka also dedicated her triumph to her parents, whom she considers a motivation to continue. "They were my great motivation to keep going. And when I was about to fall... (I said to myself) no, let's keep going. They were my main motivation, and they're very happy, excited to hear the Peruvian audience cheering for me," she concluded.
This video is provided by ESPN Play
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