Ángel Barajas, a 17-year-old gymnast from Colombia, made history by winning the country’s first Olympic medal in gymnastics, securing second place in the men’s horizontal bar event at the Paris Olympics. This achievement was unexpected, given that Colombia is more known for its love of soccer rather than gymnastics.
Barajas’ journey to success was not an easy one. He grew up in a single-parent household, and his family faced financial struggles after his father left when he was just 6 years old. Despite the challenges, Barajas pursued his passion for gymnastics and dedicated himself to the sport. His older brother, Jeisson, worked multiple jobs to support the family and help fund Barajas’ training.
Inspired by a superhero character on an Icelandic TV show, Barajas began imitating gymnastic moves at a young age. His determination and talent caught the attention of a neighbor who encouraged him to join a local gymnastics club. With the support of his family, coach, and community, Barajas honed his skills and eventually rose to compete at the international level.
In 2019, Barajas joined the Sports Ministry’s Athletic Excellence program, which provided him with financial support. He went on to win gold and silver medals at various competitions, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. His success at the Paris Olympics is a testament to his hard work and perseverance.
Barajas’ victory has not only brought pride to Colombia but has also inspired aspiring gymnasts in the country. Many fans are calling for increased government funding for gymnastics to support the development of young athletes like Barajas.
Looking ahead, there is speculation that Barajas may train abroad in preparation for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. However, for now, he is savoring his well-deserved success and reflecting on how far he has come. Despite the challenges he faced growing up, Barajas’ journey from a fence jumper to an Olympic medalist is a story of resilience, dedication, and triumph.
