Historic opening of the 1st CISM World Military Trail-O Championship and the 2nd CISM World Military Para Athletics Championship in Quito

QUITO (ECU) – The Ecuadorian capital has become the stage for an unforgettable sporting moment with the simultaneous launch of two prestigious CISM events: the 1st CISM World Military Trail-O Championship and the 2nd CISM World Military Para Athletics Championship. Both competitions, which run from 18 to 24 August 2025, are hosted at the renowned Escuela Superior Militar “Eloy Alfaro,” a symbolic venue that blends military tradition with a spirit of international camaraderie.

The opening ceremony brought together senior representatives of the Ecuadorian Armed Forces, ambassadors from partner nations, and members of the diplomatic corps, who warmly welcomed athletes and delegations. The atmosphere was one of pride and celebration, as the flags of seven participating nations – Brazil, Ecuador, Spain, Greece, Italy, Peru, and Russia – were paraded during the opening parade. The presence of these delegations underlined the truly global nature of CISM and the enduring value of its motto Friendship Through Sport.

As the competitions began, the first day was marked by determination, effort, and sporting excellence. In the Trail-O Tempo discipline, Russia confirmed its strength with a one-two finish as Aleksei Karelin and Anton Eksanov secured gold and silver respectively, while Ecuador delighted the home crowd with René Pacheco stepping onto the podium for bronze. The event, known for its mental sharpness and precision, set a high standard for the days to follow.

On the athletics track, emotions ran high as athletes challenged both their physical limits and their personal boundaries. In the 100 meters, Russia once again made its mark with Sergei Makarenkov claiming victory in the T42/T44 category ahead of Italy’s Salvatore Perrone. Italy also shone brightly as Roberto Como triumphed in the T47, while Carlo Calcagni delivered a powerful performance to secure gold in the T72. Ecuador celebrated local hero Ángel Gonzales, who crossed the line first in the T63, bringing joy to the home spectators gathered in the stands.

The 800-meter races brought thrilling battles of endurance. Russia’s Bolat Kosumov won the T46 final, narrowly holding off Italy’s Michele Ricciardi. In the T62/T64 category, Russia’s Sergei Tanygin confirmed his supremacy with a controlled victory, while Ecuador’s Jaime Castillo earned silver. The home nation celebrated again through Darwin Vallejo, who claimed victory in the T44, while Spain joined the medal tally thanks to Gustavo Molina’s gold in the T53.

The discus throw arena provided equally impressive moments. Brazil dominated several categories, with Orlando De Freitas taking the title in the F63/F64, Matheus Benine prevailing in the F46, André Luís Da Rocha excelling in the F52, and Jonas Licurgo Ferreira securing gold in the F55/F56/F57. Brazil also achieved podium finishes through Carlos Felipa of Peru, who took silver in the F63/F64, and Wendel Pereira Da Silva, who completed the podium in bronze position. Greece’s Fotios Ntimeris claimed the F42 with an outstanding throw of 41.68 meters, while in the women’s event Soultana Keramyda of Greece showed great form to win the F55/F56 ahead of Brazil’s Márcia Carvalho. The combination of strength, technique, and resilience highlighted the spirit of para athletics within the military sports family.

The high jump provided another highlight for Ecuador, with Jaime Castillo thrilling the home crowd by winning gold in the T63/T64 category after clearing 1.20 meters. Spain’s Luis Lopez equaled the height but settled for silver on countback, adding another chapter to the growing rivalry between these nations in para athletics.

Beyond the medals, what truly stood out on the opening day was the spirit of perseverance and unity that each athlete brought to the field of play. Every result carried with it a story of discipline, preparation, and the courage to overcome challenges, perfectly reflecting the values of CISM.

Both championships are open daily to the public from eight in the morning until five in the afternoon, offering residents of Quito and visitors the chance to witness world-class performances and to support military athletes from across the globe. The events provide an inspiring opportunity not only to enjoy sport but also to celebrate inclusion, determination, and the bonds of international friendship.

The closing ceremony, scheduled for Friday, 22 August 2025, will pay tribute to the athletes whose performances have inspired admiration and respect. On that day, the most outstanding competitors will be honored for their dedication, sporting spirit, and achievements, marking the conclusion of two historic championships that will remain a milestone in CISM’s history.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)