Dunfee, Perez Win Opening Day Gold at World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25

The World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 opened with impressive performances in the 35km race walk events on Saturday (August 13). Two experienced athletes, Maria Perez and Evan Dunfee, claimed the first gold medals of the championships here at Japan National Stadium.

Maria Perez Dominated Women's Event

Maria Perez of Spain successfully defended her 35km race walk title with a commanding victory. The defending champion pulled away from the field during the second half of the race and finished in 2:39:01. Her winning margin was a decisive three minutes over the silver medalist.

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Italy's Antonella Palmisano earned the silver medal in 2:42:24. Palmisano previously won Olympic gold in the 20km race walk at these same Tokyo venues four years ago. Ecuador's Paula Torres rounded out the podium with a bronze medal performance of 2:42:44, setting a new national record in the process.

This victory marks the first step in Perez's quest to repeat her double gold medal success from the Budapest World Championships two years ago. She won both the 20km and 35km race walk titles at that competition and will compete in the 20km event later this week.

Evan Dunfee Times It Just Right

Canada's Evan Dunfee became the first athlete to cross the finish line at the championships, winning the men's 35km race walk in 2:28:22. The former world record holder faced difficulty with cramping in the final stages but managed to maintain his lead and secure his first world championship title.

Dunfee's victory adds to his medal collection, which includes Olympic bronze from Tokyo 2021 and world championship bronze from Doha 2019. He won the race by a comfortable 30-second margin over the rest of the field.

Brazil's Caio Bonfim claimed the silver medal with a time of 2:28:55. Japan's Hayato Katsuki provided excitement for the home crowd by earning bronze in 2:29:16, opening the host nation's medal count at their home championships.

Final Medalist Results:

Men's 35km Race Walk:

1. Evan Dunfee (CAN) 2:28:22
2. Caio Bonfim (BRA) 2:28:55
3. Hayato Katsuki (JPN) 2:29:16

Women's 35km Race Walk:

1. Maria Perez (ESP) 2:39:01
2. Antonella Palmisano (ITA) 2:42:24
3. Paula Torres (ECU) 2:42:44 NR