Pilar Jauregui has been named a flagbearer for Peru at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony.

On the honour, she said: “It’s something I’ve always dreamed of. I never imagined I was going to have that privilege at the Paralympic Games – maybe at the Parapan American Games, yes. Not everyone in Peru is this fortunate. I don’t feel pressure because of this. It gives me a huge motivation to do my best.”

WH2 women’s singles world No.1 Jauregui Cancino believes a more relaxed mental approach has helped lift her from a seventh-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 to gold medal favourite at Paris 2024.

“I’ve been through a lot,” the Peruvian said. “In Tokyo, I was very nervous, and the most important thing is to enjoy every moment and have fun. That said, I always want to win. I’m very competitive. In my category, things are very even. I’ve won and lost in recent matches against my rivals, so I’m sure this competition will be attractive for the fans.”

Having represented Peru in wheelchair basketball, in 2015 Jauregui Cancino decided to focus on Para badminton and won gold at the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games. In 2022 she claimed a world doubles silver medal and is now targeting a place on the podium in Paris.

“A medal at world level is the dream that’s missing for me,” added the 36-year-old. “The ultimate prize would be to win a gold medal at the Paralympics, and I’m not going to stop until I achieve that.

“I’m thinking about how I started. I remember watching the London 2012 Paralympic Games on YouTube. I also remember everything I had to go through to be here. I’m enjoying being here in good health.”

Lastly, she shared her thoughts on inspiring future Para athletes.

“I’m happy because Para sport is growing in Peru. Even though there are just 13 Peruvian athletes here, there’s a great feeling around us, knowing there are many more that will follow and that are dreaming of being here.”

120 Para badminton players battle for medals in 16 events from 29 August to 2 September at Porte de la Chapelle Arena.

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