- Peru Pan Am medallist rejects hometown award after being 'denied support'

Peruvian canoeist Eriberto Gutierrez is urging his country to fulfill the laws it enacted to support sporting achievements following his rejection of an award from his hometown. Gutierrez, who won a bronze medal in the kayak cross competition at the Pan Am Games in Santiago, was invited to a ceremony in Abancay to celebrate the city’s heritage. However, he publicly criticized Mayor Raul Pena for lack of support and left the awards on the floor. Gutierrez expressed his frustration in a video posted on social media, stating that the recognition was ironic considering the lack of assistance he received. He later took to Facebook to accuse the mayor of always turning his back on him and dismissing sports laws as mere decoration. The municipality of Abancay did not respond to requests for comment. Following the viral video, Gutierrez received public praise and a crowdfunding campaign was launched to provide support. While he appreciates the gesture, Gutierrez stated that his intention was not for the video to go viral and that he doesn’t require a large sum of money. He hopes to raise funds to continue his training and acquire sports equipment. Gutierrez believes that sports laws should be implemented to promote and develop sports in Peru. His bronze medal was Peru’s first in canoeing at the Pan Am Games, where the country won a total of 32 medals, including 10 gold, six silver, and 16 bronze.