With tears of emotion in her eyes, the iconic Cuban sprinter Omara Durand officially announced her retirement from active sports, marking the end of an extraordinary career in the Paralympic Games. Considered the best disabled runner in history, Durand expressed her gratitude for the years of success, the support of the people of the island, and affirmed she feels ready to face a different chapter in her life.
"We are going to pursue other paths," said the 11-time champion under the five rings as she was accompanied by her guide and friend, Yunior Kindelán, after their final award ceremony together.
New Chapter for Omara Durand
In an interview with official journalist Guillermo Rodríguez from Radio Rebelde, the sprinter, who won three gold medals in Paris 2024 (100, 200, and 400 meters in the T12 category), reiterated that it is the right time to close this chapter. Yunior, for his part, confessed that he would miss the champion greatly. "We started as the best and ended as the best," he assured, highlighting the indelible legacy left by the Santiago native.
According to journalist Leticia Martínez on the social network Facebook, Durand also shared some of her plans: she wishes to have another child, wants to undergo eye surgery—she suffers from congenital cataracts, which may have a solution—and desires to study.
Thus, a legend of the movement for disabled athletes bids farewell, holder of world records in the cited distances and multiple champions in world and Pan American events. Paris 2024 will remain in the memory of Cubans as the event that saw off two of its greatest athletes: the wrestler Mijaín López and the para-athlete Omara Durand, icons of global sports.
Frequently Asked Questions About Omara Durand's Retirement
As Omara Durand steps away from competitive sports, many have questions about her career and future plans. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers.
Why did Omara Durand decide to retire?
Omara Durand felt it was the right time to close this chapter of her life after an extraordinary career and to pursue new paths and personal goals.
What are Omara Durand's future plans?
Omara Durand plans to have another child, undergo eye surgery for her congenital cataracts, and pursue further studies.
What was Omara Durand's achievement in Paris 2024?
In Paris 2024, Omara Durand won three gold medals in the 100, 200, and 400 meters in the T12 category.