Para swimmer Ernie Gawilan concluded his third consecutive Paralympic campaign, securing sixth place in the men’s 400m freestyle S7 final at the Paris La Defense Arena.
In the eight-man race, Gawilan clocked a time of 5:03.18, mirroring his sixth-place finish in the same event at the Tokyo Paralympics three years prior. Despite his best efforts, the elusive Paralympic medal remained just out of reach.
The race saw Italy’s Federico Bicelli clinch gold with a time of 4:38.70. Bicelli managed to take the lead from Argentina’s Iñaki Basiloff after 250 meters and maintained his position through the remaining distance. Ukraine’s Andrii Trusov secured silver with a time of 4:40.17, outpacing Basiloff, who took bronze.
Notably, Gawilan entered the final with high hopes, having recorded the third-fastest time in the heats at 5:00.13. Born with no legs and an underdeveloped left arm, Gawilan has consistently demonstrated exceptional prowess and resilience in the pool. However, in the final, he fell behind as Bicelli, Trusov, and Basiloff turned the competition into a three-man race over the last 150 meters.
This marks another chapter in Gawilan’s storied career, where he also competed in the men’s 200m individual medley SM7 but did not advance to the final. His outstanding achievements continue to inspire many, despite the challenges and stiff competition he faces.
At 33 years of age, Gawilan remains a pivotal figure in Philippine para sports, setting an example for future athletes. His journey in the Paris Paralympics concludes as he joins fellow Filipino athletes Agustina Bantiloc and Allain Ganapin in exiting the Games.
Ernie Gawilan’s perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity highlight his remarkable journey. While the Paralympic medal eluded him this time, his accomplishments in swimming continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of athletes.
Source: Rappler