Brazilian Race Walker Bonfim Claims Stunning Gold at World Athletics Championships in Tokyo
TOKYO, JAPAN – September 23, 2023 - In a dramatic finish at the japan National Stadium, Brazil’s Alessandro Bonfim secured his first global gold medal in the men’s 35km race walk at the World Athletics Championships. bonfim overtook three competitors on the final lap, crossing the finish line unaware he had won, ultimately clocking a time of 1:18:34.
The victory marks a career high for bonfim, who previously held two silver and two bronze medals from major international competitions. He revealed a personal sacrifice fueled his performance, stating, “The oldest of my three children, Miguel, told me he missed me.I said that my success could compensate for my absence. I am here for him and I made sure my effort was worthy of him.” He also jokingly addressed losing his wedding ring during the race, saying, “I lost my wedding ring in the third kilometre.I believe my wife will be OK because I won today.”
the race took a surprising turn when Japan’s world record-holder and pre-race favorite, Toshikazu Yamanishi, was hit with a two-minute time penalty, effectively removing him from contention. Bonfim, who had strategically positioned himself to follow Yamanishi, seized the chance to take the lead in the final kilometres.
China’s Wang Zhaozhao claimed silver with a time of 1:18:43, marking his first World Championships medal following successes at the Asian Championships in May and the Asian Games in 2023. He attributed his success to a month-long training camp in Yuanjiang, Yunnan Province, chosen for its similar climate to Tokyo.
Spain’s Paul McGrath secured the bronze medal in 1:18:45, a dream come true for the athlete who climbed from seventh in the world ranking. Despite battling cramps in the final kilometre, McGrath held on for his first World Championships medal, adding to Spain’s medal count following Maria Perez’s gold in the women’s race earlier in the day.He admitted to a moment of fear after Yamanishi’s disqualification, but focused on securing a podium finish.
Yamanishi expressed his disappointment, stating, ”I am very disappointed. I wish I had been more careful during the race… I don’t know what to do now.” He indicated he will need to reassess his plans moving forward.
