Guantanamo.- Noraivis, active for over two decades, taking Cuba’s name to the podium in various multi-sport events. She never expected to be recognized for her athletic achievements with the city’s symbol, La Fama (The Fame).
Given her athletic career, the approval for this distinction was unanimous, thus applauding the successful career of the Guantánamo native Paralympic athlete.
According to Noraivis, words cannot describe the emotion she felt upon receiving La Fama Award. “I was informed that I should be at the Solemn Assembly, but I didn’t think they would award me this distinction.
“It’s something very important, a great honor. Without a doubt, I can say it’s the greatest achievement of my career. No medal compares to it; the emotion is immense,” she says.
This distinction, awarded by the Municipal Assembly of People’s Power, has recognized institutions, organizations, and individuals since 1993, who through their various social, economic, productive, political, and cultural contributions, significantly influence the development of Guantánamo Province.
In javelin, discus, and shot put, the Guantánamo para-athlete has won two bronze medals at Paralympic Games, two gold medals at Parapan American Games, and other Grand Prix events.
When asked about her age and athletic competitiveness, she said: “Age is just a number. An athlete should focus on training; “Exercise is health, and for an athlete with disabilities, it’s an opportunity to prove their ability to compete,” she says, smiling as she adds that her 61 years old are just numbers on a piece of paper.
