The link between triathlon and Chile spans more than 40 years, and the legacy built by leading figures such as Cristián Bustos, Matías Brain and Bárbara Riveros has laid the foundation that fuels the competitive drive of new generations. This has led Chile to be considered one of the leading nations in the region. The South American Youth Games taking place in Panama witnessed how a young Chilean born in Santiago pushed himself to the limit to claim two gold medals, an achievement that marks a strong beginning and could see him follow in the footsteps of the sport’s great names, or even surpass them.

Raimundo San Martín won the men’s category with a time of 57:32. In addition, together with Julieta Waltemath, Pascalle Ahumada and Enrique Pau, he was part of the mixed relay team that took Chile to the top of this youth multi-sport event. In an exclusive interview with ‘SportsIn‘, the Chilean spoke about his sporting journey. San Martín described his emotions, highlighting how rewarding it is to win an international competition: “I didn’t expect to bring two gold medals to Chile. It’s an incredible experience, it’s very beautiful.”

His performance reflected that of a highly experienced athlete, although the conditions he had to compete in were very different from those he faces in his daily life in his hometown. “The goal was to win a medal. It was tough because in Chile, at least where I live, it’s not hot and there isn’t much humidity. So we had to adapt,” said the winner, who explained that sauna sessions and running workouts were necessary to acclimatise to Panama’s conditions. “The humidity really affects us Chileans, so it’s complicated. When you have to race in these conditions, you just have to grit your teeth and give it everything.”

Despite the humidity, San Martín found a balance that worked in his favour. “At least the water was warmer. In Chile we compete in very cold water, and now that’s even restricted in some cases. I thought it would be warmer here, but it wasn’t. Still, the temperature was comfortable, so I didn’t come out of the water feeling too hot,” the triathlete explained.

The discipline that challenges him the most in triathlon

Swimming, which together with cycling and running makes up triathlon, has not always worked in San Martín’s favour, but this time things were different. “In several races, my swimming has been a bit below where it should be. It’s what I’ve struggled with the most lately,” admitted the double medallist, who also highlighted the improvement he has made in recent months.

In previous competitions, the team formed by San Martín, Enrique Pau, Julieta Waltemath and Pascalle Ahumada had not achieved good results, but that did not hold them back in Panama. “We had already practised a relay at the South American triathlon championship in Argentina. It didn’t go well and we weren’t happy, but it helped us learn, get to know each other as a team and correct our mistakes.” He also highlighted the importance of coaches Javier Huilla and Rui Carrizo, especially in relay preparation.

His first approach to triathlon

San Martín grew up in a family of athletes, eventually leaning towards the discipline practised by his father. “I started triathlon when I was about 10 years old. Between swimming lessons and other activities, I liked triathlon the most,” he said. “Thanks to my mum, who does sport, and my dad, who also practises triathlon, everything was easier because he already knew it. It wasn’t like getting into a completely unknown sport,” added the South American youth champion.

Chile is currently one of the hosts of one of the world’s most important circuits, the Ironman 70.3, and over time, international-level athletes have emerged in the country, serving as references for San Martín. “I always watch them compete, and it’s a dream to reach a World Cup and race against the best. It’s a big goal for me. If two years ago someone had told me I would be at these Games, I wouldn’t have believed it,” said the Chilean, still surprised. “Time goes by very fast. I remember watching the best Chileans on television competing in World Cups, and I was impressed, I got emotional,” recalled the double champion.

In a family where sport is essential, there is also room for music. “Outside triathlon, I really like music. I used to take many guitar lessons and I also play the drums. Music has always been part of my family, just like sport.”