Jalisco athletes have once again showcased their prowess at the Paralympic Games.

Continuing his remarkable career, Tapatio swimmer José Arnulfo Castorena secured his fourth Paralympic gold medal by finishing first in the 50-meter breaststroke SB2 event. The 46-year-old previously clinched gold in the same event at Tokyo 2020, as well as in Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004, along with three other medals.

Castorena, visibly moved, watched as the Mexican flag was raised and the national anthem played in the Paris arena. Similarly touched was Guadalajara native Haidee Viviana Aceves, who won a silver medal in the 100-meter backstroke event a few days earlier.

Praises poured in for both swimmers. Mexico’s President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum hailed Castorena as a “source of pride for Mexico,” echoing sentiments expressed by Guadalajara Mayor-elect Veronica Delgadillo for the four-time gold medalist and Aceves.

Reflecting on his performance, Castorena expressed pride in returning to the podium but admitted to experiencing discomfort in his right arm during the race. He credited his children for motivating him to persevere through sacrifices, noting that “everything has its reward in the end.”

Looking ahead to the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles, Castorena expressed hope of participating provided he takes good care of his arm.

By the second week of the games, Mexico’s medal count had risen to 12, including three golds, four silvers, and five bronzes. As of September 5, China led the medal table with 165 medals, followed by Great Britain with 83 and the United States with 77.