Daniel Dias Secures More Parapan Gold

(ATR) Para swimmer Daniel Dias won his third gold at the Parapan American Games in Lima on Thursday.

The Brazilian’s win in the 100m freestyle secured his 30th Parapan gold medal that dates back to Rio 2007.

"You end up losing track of all the awards you win in the water. What really makes me want to improve in this sport is my love for my children. I want to show them that, if you work hard, you can exceed your own limits every day and overcome any obstacles. You just have to believe everything is possible," said Dias to Lima 2019.

In addition to Parapan titles, Dias has won 14 Paralympic gold medals from Beijing 2008 to Rio 2016.

At the age of 31, Dias is focused on training for Tokyo 2020.

"It’s an honor to be compared to a swimming legend such as Phelps. I grew up looking up to him and, when I started to gain attention, my goal was to promote this Paralympic sport," Dias said.

"Only God knows if I’ll make it to 100 gold medals. I still have to compete at the London 2019 World Cup in aquatics and at Tokyo 2020. So, let’s just take it one step at a time."

Dias will be chasing gold in the 50m butterfly and 200m freestyle on Friday.

More than 1,800 athletes are taking part in the 6th edition of the Parapans.

Paralympians from 33 countries are in Lima to compete in 18 disciplines.

The games end Sept. 1 with Balich Worldwide Shows staging the Closing Ceremony.

Homepage Photo Credit: Lima 2019.

Written by Greer Wilson.