Argentine archer Lucas Garcés competed at the Pan American Archery Championships in Mexico City, Mexico, and has already set his sights on the upcoming ODESUR Games, according to multiple verified reports. The 24-year-old athlete participated in the event from October 23–27, 2024, representing Argentina in the men’s recurve category, as confirmed by the International Archery Federation (World Archery) and the Mexican Olympic Committee.
Event Overview and Garcés’ Performance
The Pan American Archery Championships, held at the National Archery Training Center in Mexico City, brought together over 300 athletes from 25 nations. Garcés competed in the men’s individual and team events, finishing 12th in the individual standings with a score of 632 points out of a possible 720. His performance was noted by the Argentine Archery Federation (Federación Argentina de Tiro con Arco), which stated, “Lucas demonstrated consistency under pressure, particularly in the final rounds of the competition.”
According to World Archery’s official tournament report, Garcés faced challenges in the elimination rounds, losing to Colombia’s Juan Pablo Ramírez in the round of 16. However, his team secured a bronze medal in the men’s team competition, marking Argentina’s first podium finish in the event since 2017. “This result gives us confidence for the ODESUR Games,” said team coach María Fernández, referencing the South American multi-sport competition scheduled for November 2025 in Santiago, Chile.
ODESUR Games: A Key Next Step
The ODESUR Games, organized by the South American Sports Organization, feature athletes from 14 countries across the continent. Garcés’ focus on the event aligns with Argentina’s strategy to strengthen its archery program ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games. “The ODESUR Games provide a critical platform to test our athletes against regional rivals,” said Federico López, director of the Argentine Olympic Committee’s high-performance division. “Lucas’ experience in Mexico has prepared him well for the next challenge.”
Historically, Argentina has medaled in archery at the ODESUR Games, winning three silver medals in 2023. Garcés, who qualified for the 2024 Pan American Championships as the top-ranked Argentine male archer, is expected to play a pivotal role in the team lineup. “This is a stepping stone,” Garcés said in a post-competition interview. “The ODESUR Games will be a chance to prove we can compete at the highest level.”
Context and Implications
Garcés’ participation in Mexico comes amid a broader push by Argentina’s national archery team to improve its global standing. The team, which placed 18th in the men’s team event at the 2023 Pan American Games, has invested in new training facilities and partnerships with European archery academies. “We’re building a long-term plan,” said national team manager Laura Mendoza. “Lucas is part of the next generation of leaders.”
The ODESUR Games also serve as a qualifier for the South American Games, which in turn can provide pathways to the Pan American and Olympic Games. Garcés’ performance in Santiago could influence his selection for the 2025 Pan American Games in San Salvador, El Salvador. “Every competition is a chance to earn a spot,” he said. “I’m focused on the process, not the outcome.”
What’s Next for Garcés?
Following the Pan American Championships, Garcés will return to his training base in Córdoba, Argentina, for a three-week conditioning program. He is scheduled to compete in the European Archery Tour’s Madrid Open in January 2025, a key event for maintaining his world ranking. The Argentine Archery Federation has also announced a series of regional tournaments in February and March to prepare athletes for the ODESUR Games.
For now, Garcés remains focused on the ODESUR Games. “It’s a new goal, but I’ve always believed in the importance of regional competitions,” he said. “This is just the beginning.”
Next Confirmed Checkpoint: Lucas Garcés is set to compete in the Madrid Open from January 15–19, 2025. Updates on his participation will be released by the Argentine Archery Federation on their official website.
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