Colombia experienced a great start at the World Games winning two Gold,
two Silver and two Bronze medals in the opening weekend of the event
that is currently being held in Taiwan.
Jorge Luis Cifuentes won the 15,000 meter Roller Sports Speed final, finishing just ahead of Frenchman Yann Guyader. Another Colombian, Andres Munoz won Bronze ahead of compatriots Nelson Garzon and Pedro Causil.
The other Gold medal was conquered by Causil. The 18-year-old sprinted to victory in the 1000 meters final on Saturday, ahead of Alexis Contin (France) and Claudio Naselli (Italy).
Silver medals were earned by Andres Munoz, Marta Ramirez (2) and Nelson Garzon. The remaining Bronze medal went to Pedro Causil.
The great performance of the Roller Speed team on the first two days, earned Colombia a third place on the medal table. Only Russia and host national Taiwan were more successful.
The World Games are held every four years since 1981, with the city of Kaohsiung hosting this year’s edition. The event showcases 34 sports that don’t form part of the Olympic Games. However, the International Olympic Committee does support the World Games.
Over 3,000 athletes compete from 91 different countries. Colombia, tradionally a strong roller speed nation, will want to promote this sport for inclusion in future Olympic Games.