Maria Perez Garcia, the two-time world champion in 20 and 35-kilometer walk races at Budapest 2023, sees the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics as a golden opportunity to “close a circle” and prepare for the next cycle in a different manner.

In Tokyo 2020, Perez missed out on the podium, finishing fourth in the 20-kilometer race. This has left her with a burning desire to prove herself in the French capital, where she will compete in her second Olympic Games.

“Not being able to win a medal was disappointing, and I aim to redeem myself in Paris,” Perez emphasized. She mentioned the general disregard shown towards athletes who come close to the podium but don’t make it, as if only the top three matter and the fourth is forgotten.

Overcoming Injury and Looking Ahead

Walker from Orge (Granada) has recently started training again after recovering from a stress fracture in the sacrum. She has been walking normally for four weeks without feeling any strain during workouts. While injuries always impact preparatory plans, Perez remains optimistic.

Also, the injury has undoubtedly influenced her pre-Olympic year and competition schedule. The exact competition in which she will debut is yet to be determined. Her participation in the World Championship in Antalya (Turkey) in April is uncertain.

“The Federation and I will have to decide what is the most advisable, but I will definitely compete in the Games, the Club League, and the Spanish Championship,” Perez confirmed.

Aspiring to Double Up at the Olympics

Like her fellow world champion Alvaro Martin, Perez aspires to compete in two events at the Olympics – the 20-kilometer race and the relay race. The choice of athletes for the relay will be made after the 20-kilometer race, based on the form and sensations of the walkers.

“Nothing is decided about who will compete in the relay. It depends on what happens in the 20 kilometers, but I would certainly like to compete in both races,” Perez asserted confidently.

Dealing with Doping Scandals

Perez also commented on the recent doping scandals in Spanish middle and long-distance running, with sanctions against Katir and Oumaiz. She believes that strong punitive measures must be adopted for athletes who break the rules, especially as Spain has come under scrutiny and any doubt must be eradicated.

“It is also important to set an example for the younger generation,” Perez added.