With the support of the Government of Pará, through Seel, a swimmer from Pará shines in a national swimming tournament in Roraima — RR
The swimmer from Pará, Rafael Meiguins, 14 years old, was one of the highlights of the XXVIII Interclub Swimming Tournament Troféu Leônidas Marques, held from May 8 to 10 in Boa Vista–RR. Competing in the Infantil 2 category, Rafael won one gold medal, two silver medals, and three bronze medals, elevating the name of Pará in one of the main regional competitions on the calendar of the Brazilian Confederation of Aquatic Sports (CBDA). The athlete received support from the Government of Pará, through the State Secretariat of Sports and Leisure (Seel).
The Seel secretary, Cássio Andrade, emphasized the Government's work in valuing and promoting sports through Seel. “Through well-structured public policies, Seel seeks to encourage sports practice in various modalities, promoting social inclusion and the well-being of the population. In addition, support for athletes and teams, the organization of sports events, and the improvement of infrastructure are actions that contribute to strengthening sports at the state level. By investing in sports, the Government of Pará, through Seel, not only stimulates healthy habits and social inclusion but also fosters values such as discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, which are essential for the formation of citizens,” said Secretary Cássio Andrade.
The event brought together athletes from the Infantil to Senior categories from various clubs in the Northern Region and also included the participation of invited entities from the Northeast, according to CBDA regulations. The structure of the competition, promoted by the Roraima Aquatic Sports Federation (FEDAR), featured a 50-meter Olympic pool, electronic timing, and real-time monitoring of results, an organization worthy of the young talents emerging in Brazilian swimming.
Accompanied by his father, Breno Serique Meiguins, who had to take on multiple roles: coach, logistics manager, security, and emotional support, Rafael's participation was marked by determination and overcoming challenges. “It was a unique feeling of happiness to see my son carrying the flag of our state outside. This participation was only possible thanks to the support of Seel, which was fundamental in making the trip feasible and fostering the emergence of new talents in Pará's sports,” highlighted Breno.
With performances like that of Rafael Meiguins, Pará reaffirms its presence in the national sports scene and shows that investment in grassroots sports, combined with family and institutional support, remains the most promising path to form not only athletes but committed and inspiring citizens.
Text: Pedro Arthur with supervision by Jessé Lima
