Carmelo Pérez Celebrated for Paralympic Duathlon Triumphs

Carmelo Pérez, the recently crowned 2025 world champion in paralympic duathlon sprint for the PTS4 category, has gained significant recognition for his outstanding achievements in adaptive sports. During a meeting held in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the Canarian Minister of Education and Sports, Poli Suárez, praised Pérez’s dedication and hard work, noting his remarkable journey in just five years since he began competing.

Following a challenging period that included a traffic accident, Pérez made his competitive debut in 2021 and has since collected numerous accolades, including five national titles in medium distance and the European championship title in sprint distance in 2024. His world championship win involved a rigorous sprint event comprising a five-kilometer run, a twenty-kilometer bike ride, and a concluding two-and-a-half-kilometer run.

Looking forward, Pérez aims to defend his national titles and has expressed interest in participating in upcoming European and world championships, contingent on their locations. He acknowledged the competitive nature of qualifying for Olympic spots but remains committed to supporting younger athletes in their pursuits.

"This year has been tough for me, but it has also been rewarding," Pérez reflected on his achievements. The government has reiterated its support for adaptive sports, highlighting its promise to aid athletes facing challenges in sports accessibility. Pérez’s trajectory offers inspiration, showcasing resilience and determination in the realm of competitive sports.