Mozambican sprinter Edmilsa Governo, a Paralympic medalist and one of Mozambique's most promising athletes in adapted sports, will not participate in the 400-meter T13 (visual impairment) event at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The athlete, who won a bronze medal at the Rio de Janeiro Paralympic Games in 2016 and competed in Tokyo 2020, announced her withdrawal due to an injury.
Edmilsa shared the sad news on her social media, revealing that the injury prevents her from competing this year. “I’m injured, I won’t be able to compete this time (400m). I’m under intensive care until my leg recovers, God willing, until the next competitions and the Paralympics in Los Angeles. I’m fine, don’t worry, however I pray to God for a speedy recovery, as this is normal for any athlete, because an injury doesn’t define who you are or where you are capable of achieving. Without further ado, thank you to all my supporters, see you soon!”, wrote the athlete.
This injury marks the first time Edmilsa has missed a Paralympic Games, following her remarkable career in previous competitions. In 2016, in Rio de Janeiro, Edmilsa shone by winning bronze in the 400 meters T12, raising Mozambique's name to the Paralympic podium. However, the unfortunate injury interrupted her plans for Paris 2024, where she intended to improve even further.
their trademarks and strive for new achievements.
A specialist in the 100 and 400 meters, Edmilsa had been preparing to beat the 55-second mark set by her opponents, aiming to lower her time to the 53-54 second range. Determined and focused, she had high expectations for this edition of the Paralympic Games. Now, her focus is on recovery and future competitions, including the Los Angeles Paralympic Games.
Edmilsa's absence from Paris 2024 is a significant blow, as she is one of the country's leading representatives in Paralympic athletics. However, her message of resilience and optimism makes it clear that the athlete is ready to face this challenge and continue her successful career in adapted sports.
