BUDAPEST, Hungary (August 24) — Spain’s Alvaro Martin and Maria Perez stamped their authority at the 2023 World Athletics Championships by completing a determined race walk double. The duo clinched gold in the 35 kilometers race walks on Thursday, adding to their impressive tally from last weekend’s 20km events.
Martin, with a steely resolve, managed to fend off a spirited challenge from Ecuador’s Brian Pintado, finishing the men’s race in a commendable 2:24:30 to set a new national record.
- Read more: Spain’s Alvaro Martin wins men’s 20km race walk: World Championships 2023
- Read more: Maria Perez breaks 35km race walk world record in Podebrady
- Read more: How to watch Day 6: World Track and Field Championships, live results, start lists
Not to be outdone, compatriot, Maria Perez set the course ablaze, registering a championship record time of 2:38:40 to win the gold medal in the women’s 35 kilometers race.
She finished with a comfortable lead, more than two minutes ahead of the defending champion, Kimberly Garcia Leon of Peru, who crossed the line in 2:40:52. The bronze medal went to European champion Antigoni Ntrismpioti of Greece, who posted a season-best of 2:43:22.
Click here for complete women’s result
The men’s 35 kilometers race walk
The event saw its share of drama. Early leader, Aurelien Quinion of France, saw his hopes dashed as he was disqualified after falling behind the pace. Martin, seizing the opportunity, shared the lead with Pintado and Japan’s Masatora Kawano.
However, with less than 2km to go, Martin made his move, setting a national record and finishing a mere four seconds ahead of Pintado, who set a new South American record with 2:24:34. Kawano secured the bronze medal with a season’s best of 2:25:12.
A visibly exhausted Martin reflected on his journey, “Being fourth in the Olympic Games was a heartbreak, being so near yet so far from an Olympic medal.
“But standing here today, as a double world champion in Budapest, it feels surreal.”
He added with a hint of pride, “Seeing Maria top the women’s race, it’s evident that today belongs to Spain.”
Click here for complete men’s result
PHOTO: Maria Perez of Spain wins women’s 35 Kilometers Race Walk Final. Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images for World Athletics
