Eight gold medals, one bronze medal, and seven stories that remind us that the greatest dreams are built through hard work, discipline, and unwavering determination.  

This was the remarkable performance of our athletes from the 10de10 program at the XIII South American Games Santa Fe 2026, in Argentina. Their achievements fill us with pride and deeply move us, because behind every victory lie years of sacrifice, training, and an extraordinary determination to keep reaching new heights. 

Carolina Velásquez Soto won gold in the women's triathlon, demonstrating once again that her talent and perseverance continue to take her to the top. María Fernanda Mena also brought pride to Colombia by becoming champion in the women's 77 kg weightlifting category. Meanwhile, Mateo Carmona claimed gold in BMX Racing, a victory that reflects his ability to rise again, overcome obstacles, and continue believing in himself. 

In track cycling, Stefany Cuadrado delivered an extraordinary performance, winning three gold medals in the individual sprint, keirin, and team sprint events. She also set a new South American record in the flying 200 meters. Her achievements confirm her tremendous potential and inspire us to dream about everything she has yet to accomplish. 

Athletics also brought unforgettable moments. María Camila Maturana became champion in the women's 4 × 100-meter relay alongside her teammates, setting a new national record. Meanwhile, Deiner Guaitoto earned a bronze medal in the men's 4 × 400-meter relay, adding another reason for Colombia to celebrate. 

And although not every victory comes with a medal, every achievement deserves recognition. At just 16 years old, Emanuel Otálvaro reached the quarterfinals in table tennis, gaining valuable international experience and demonstrating that the future is also built by embracing new challenges. 

At Fundación Fraternidad Medellín, we celebrate these results with a very special sense of pride and emotion. We know that a medal represents much more than sporting recognition: it reflects countless early mornings, sacrifices, difficult moments, supportive families, and athletes who, even when the road becomes challenging, continue finding reasons to move forward. 

Santa Fe 2026 leaves us with unforgettable moments of joy, but also with one certainty: the best chapters of these stories are still waiting to be written. 

Our sights remain set on Los Angeles 2028, and every competition, every lesson learned, and every victory brings us one step closer to that goal. 

To our seven athletes, thank you for inspiring us, for representing Colombia with such pride, and for reminding us that dreams have no limits when we work hard to achieve them.