At Paris 2024, Daniel Molina had a 20-year dream, unlike other Paralympic athletes who had four-year objectives.
The 49-year-old Spaniard won gold in the Para triathlon PTS3 on Monday morning, capping off a spectacular career that began with Para swimming.
After representing Spain in the 100m backstroke S10 at Athens 2004, Molina switched to running and cycling in 2011. He became a five-time world champion after competing.
His Paralympic dreams were dashed at Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 because his category wasn't selected. Until now.
“I’m very happy, it is the best day of my career,” he beamingly added. Twenty years later, Molina's Paris 2024 goals differed. This was his ambition; unlike Athens, he felt glory was achievable.
Twenty years ago, I came to compete; today, I came to win. I wanted to have fun and try. Of course I knew I had a chance.
Molina's tale is remarkable. Since age three, swimming has been his strength and love. That may explain his 22-second lead over Max Gelhaar of Germany following the first leg on the River Seine.
A 22-year-old motorcycle accident transformed his life. He had to reassess everything after 14 operations and a lower right leg amputation.