Chilean Olympians make history in Santiago

6 | 10 | 2023

The largest ever gathering of Olympians in Chilean history took place just before the Santiago 2023 Pan American and Parapan American Games, which will kick off later this month. Panam Sports President Neven Ilic, NOC Chile President Miguel Angel Mujica and Santiago 2023 Executive Director Harold Mayne-Nicholls were among the dignitaries who were present as seventy-five Chilean Olympians were awarded their prestigious OLY certificates and pins.

NOA Chile President Miguel Droguett OLY said: “We are honoured to have the presence today of Panam Sports President Neven Ilic and NOC Chile President Miguel Angel Mujica. On behalf of the Chilean Olympians Association, I would like to thank them both for their support, as well as the WOA and our sponsors whose financial contributions made this event possible. Congratulations to all my fellow Olympians honoured today.’’

WOA President Joel Bouzou OLY said: “We are so happy to see our Service to Olympians grant awarded to the Chilean Olympians Association put to such good use. OLY recognises the achievements of Olympians and their commitment to use the Olympic values and the power of sport to make the world a better place. We salute the 75 Chilean Olympians honoured in Santiago and wish them all the best for the future.” 

Among the celebrated Olympians were:

  • Paris Inostroza OLY (Fencing – Atlanta 1996, Athens 2004, Beijing 2008, London 2012)
  • Isidora Jiménez OLY (Athletics – Rio 2016)
  • Erika Olivera OLY (Athletics – Atlanta 1996, Sidney 2000, Athens 2004, London 2012, Rio 2016)
  • Gert Weil OLY (Athletics – Los Angeles 1984, Seoul 1988, Barcelona 1992, Atlanta 1996)
  • Annegret Weller OLY and Betty Kretschmer OLY (Athletics – London 1948)

Panam Sports President, Neven Ilic, closed the event telling the 75 Olympians present: “Congratulations to all of you for your great efforts that led you to represent our Chile at the Olympic Games. It would be an honour to have you all at the Opening Ceremony of Santiago 2023. I formally invite you to attend and look forward to welcoming you soon.”