Blind surfer, Henry Martinez, won a medal at the Open Pro-Adaptive Surfing, which took place over the weekend at Boca Barranca Beach, Puntarenas Province.

According to the Sports Institute, Martínez won the silver medal in the blind category, with only a few points less than the winner Aitor Gallo Francesena of Spain.

“Honestly, it was an incredible final. The conditions were amazing. I had fun during the final, beyond the pressure and the often very challenging conditions," said Martínez shortly after receiving his silver medal.

Martínez was the world champion in adapted surfing, winning the gold medal in 2021.

He was the only athlete from Costa Rica to win a medal in the games. The team was also made up of Roy Calderón, Matthews Vanderhooth, Edwin Ocampo, Juan Manuel Camacho, Dariel Meléndez, Deiner Campos and Baldir Vallejos.

The Open Pro of Adaptive Surfing had the participation of 65 competitors from 18 countries. Like regular surfing, adaptive surfing involves the surfer paddling out and riding a wave toward the shore. To compete, athletes must have a physical or visual impairment.

Martínez joins the rankings of other Costa Rican athletes who have been recognized internationally. Early this month, Sharon Herrera-Soto made history by being the first Costa Rican woman to win a silver medal at the International Grand Prix that took place in Spain.

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