Giant mural honours Ecuadorian athletes

9 | 11 | 2015

Thirteen prominent figures from Ecuadorian sport have been immortalised in a 28 metre mural located in the central facade of the famous Guayaquil Tennis Club.

The mural which includes two Olympians, Nicolas Lapentti (Beijing 2008) and Jorge Delgado Panchana (Munich 1972 and Montreal 1976), is the work of Buenos Aires artist Francisco Velasquez Zambrano and is a tribute to athletes who have excelled in tennis, swimming and billiards.

Some of the honorees including and athletes Lapentti, Delgado Panchana, Andres Gomez and Mariuxi Febres Cordero participated in the inauguration which recognises their effort, dedication and achievements in sport.

Located in one of the main areas of the city the art work is firmly in the spotlight and serves as a reminder of a golden generation of Ecuadorian sport.

Jorge Delgado Panchana, Ecuadorian Olympians Association President, said:

“This fantastic art work is a fitting symbol for the achievements of the athletes depicted in the mural. Over the years they have been wonderful ambassadors for Ecuadorian sport and it is a privilege to honour them in this way giving them the praise and credit that they richly deserve. I hope that this initiative will be imitated by other cities.”

Joel Bouzou, WOA President, said:

“Elite athletes and Olympians have the unique ability to engage and inspire future sports stars and this mural is a fantastic way to promote the accomplishments and achievements of its subjects. The mural will take pride of place in central Guayaquil and I’m sure many young athletes will draw inspiration from this fantastic monument.”