The Extremadura archery community is mourning the loss of Inés Pérez, a dedicated athlete who took up the sport at age 70 and maintained an active training schedule despite ongoing health challenges, according to local sports federations and regional reports. Pérez passed away, leaving behind a legacy of resilience within the Federación Extremeña de Tiro con Arco and the Asociación Oncológica Extremeña (AOEX).
Raquel de San Macario, president of the regional archery federation, publicly shared the news of Pérez’s passing, remembering her as a constant and committed presence on the training grounds. Despite facing mobility limitations that required the use of a walker in recent years, Pérez adapted her training routine to shoot from a seated position. “She learned at 70 and never missed a session,” de San Macario noted in statements provided to regional media outlets, describing her as a joyful, persistent person who arrived at every practice with her bow and an infectious smile.
A Pillar of Regional Archery and Community Health Initiatives
Beyond her participation in standard training sessions, Pérez was deeply involved in specialized community sports programs. She was a regular participant in the “Arco y Salud” (Archery and Health) project, attending weekly sessions every Friday. Additionally, she served on the board of directors for AOEX and played an active role in “Flechas Rosas contra el cáncer de mama” (Pink Arrows Against Breast Cancer), a joint initiative between the Extremadura archery federation and the oncology association.
The “Flechas Rosas” initiative, which marks its fifth edition this October with open house days and a solidarity tournament backed by the Diputación de Cáceres and the Junta de Extremadura, will hold heightened emotional significance for local athletes moving forward. Federation leadership emphasized that future editions of the breast cancer awareness campaign will serve as a direct tribute to Pérez, ensuring that her dedication and example remain tied to the sport’s community outreach efforts.
Legacy Within Extremadura Sports
The passing of Pérez has resonated deeply with athletes, volunteers, and those who knew her. Her refusal to let physical barriers interfere with her passion for archery established a powerful example. Organizers confirmed that the upcoming October solidarity events will honor her memory as athletes take to the shooting line across Extremadura.
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