Jefferson Pérez

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Records

Jefferson Pérez's career is defined by historic firsts. He was the first Ecuadorian to win an Olympic medal, and his gold in 2008 remains the country's only Olympic gold. He is also the only race walker to win the 20 km world title three years running, a feat that underscores his dominance in the event. His legacy extends beyond medals: he inspired a generation of Ecuadorian athletes and helped put race walking on the map in South America.

AwardsJefferson Pérez won two Olympic medals, a silver in 1996 and a gold in 2008, both in the 20 km race walk. He also claimed two World Championship titles, in 2003 and 2005. These achievements make him one of the most decorated race walkers in history and the only Ecuadorian to win an Olympic gold.

Honours & Distinctions

Panam Sports Hall of Fame

Panam Sports·2019

Inducted for his contributions to athletics in the Americas.

Track named in his honor

City of Cuenca·2024

An athletic track in Cuenca was named after him, recognizing his sporting achievements.

Records & Feats

First Ecuadorian to win an Olympic medal

Historic First·1996

Won silver in the 20 km race walk at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

Only man to win 20 km race walk world title three consecutive years

Career Milestone·2005

Won world titles in 1999, 2003, and 2005.

First Ecuadorian Olympic gold medalist

Historic First·2008

Won gold in the 20 km race walk at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.