Colombian Antonio Gómez Ortiz was crowned champion of the Under-23 Men’s Short Track (XCC) at the 2026 Pan American MTB Championships, held in San Juan del Paraná, Paraguay, after a thrilling race decided by a photo finish.
Gómez completed the nine laps of the demanding circuit in 19 minutes and 44 seconds, reaching an average speed of 24.63 km/h, to take the gold medal in an explosive and high-intensity race.
The podium was completed by Brazilian Vinicius Howe Vini, who finished second with a time of 19:45, and Argentinian Nicolás Reynoso, third with 19:48, confirming the high level of competition in the Under-23 category at the continental event.
The race, characterized by its fast pace and constant changes in position, demanded maximum concentration and power from the start. Gómez managed his effort perfectly and responded at the crucial moment to secure the Pan American title.
The rider from Bucaramanga earned his second medal in Paraguay, following the bronze he won with the UCI national relay team, where he competed alongside Daniela Gaviria Ramírez, Santiago Quintero Arango, Angie Milena Lara Zarazo, María Isabel Castro Delgadillo, and Jhonatan Botero Villegas.
With this result, Colombia reaffirms its prominence in continental MTB and adds another medal to the championship, consolidating the development and international projection process in the Under-23 category.
It is worth noting that Colombia has now won three medals at the Pan American Games, including a silver in the Copaci relay (cadets) with Emmanuel Morales, Stefany Higuita, and Luciana Torres.
Source: Fedeciclismo.com