Whilst sports-loving Paraguay is currently focused on the ASU2025 Junior Pan American Games, another Paraguayan athlete is chasing medals far away in China. Julio Mirena is, being the sole representative of his country, competing in Chengdu at the World Games. At this unofficial “Olympics for non-Olympic sports”, the 29-year-old inline speed skater fulfilled his dream: on Paraguay Flag Day, 14 August 2025, he proudly flew the Paraguayan flag in Asia, by claiming the gold medal in the 5,000 metres competition.
Awakening the passion
From childhood dreams to the world stage, his life is defined by determination, medals, and pride. Julio César Mirena Ortiz is arguably the most familiar name on the international speed skating circuit. Mirena was nine years old when he first laced up for skates, that grew incrementally into an essential part of his existence.
“For me, above all things, my sport is an issue of pride,” the proud Paraguayan tells The Asunción Times. “An unbeatable feeling because I am representing Paraguay.”
Mirena became a professional in 2011 and has represented Paraguay since 2022, with a determined goal of achieving a world top-ten rank for himself. He achieved a historic milestone at the World Skate Games Italy 2024, as he became the first Paraguayan in history to win a world medal in speed skating for his country. Earlier this year, at the Pan American Speed Skating Championships 2025 in Medellín, Colombia, Mirena was back on the podium yet again.
Julio Mirena’s golden triumph in China
And then came his World Games Chengdu 2025 participation in China. After securing the silver medal in the 10,000 metres first, Mirena’s golden moment arrived the day after on 15 August, Paraguay Flag Day, when he clinched his gold medal.
“This gold medal is for my country, for my family, and for every Paraguayan,” Mirena says, deeply moved. “We are a warriors. Warriors who have overcome adversity despite the circumstances. I am very proud to be standing at the top of the podium, and I hope my fellow athletes will continue to fight. To pursue their dreams, and their goals.”
What are the World Games?
The World Games feature 34 non-Olympic sports with 253 programme events, welcoming the world’s greatest athletes. Mirena, participating in the road speed skating events, is the sole representative of Paraguay in the 2025 edition of this unofficial “Olympics for non-Olympic sports” in Chengdu.
“Even though speed skating is not an Olympic sport, this is the highest governing body in our sport,” Mirena explains, referring to the status of the competition. “To have Paraguayan representation is a sign that we are doing something right,” he goes on with conviction.
Mirena is not only competing alongside the world’s best but inspiring others, spreading positivity, and demonstrating what is achievable with commitment: “All that we are building, step by step, is bearing fruit.”
Looking ahead
After Julio Mirena’s successful medal chase in Chengdu this August, his efforts align seamlessly with the Paraguay’s aspirations in the sport. With Asunción poised to host the World Skate Games 2026, it is a remarkable moment where Mirena’s journey, and Paraguay’s hosting role converge.
His entry next year, may very well take Paraguay’s image in the sport of speed skating to unprecedented levels, and inspire future generations. Whatever the result, his perseverance and determination ensure he will be an icon of devotion and passion for the sport.
The World Games champion ends reflecting on the current performance of the young Paraguayans competing in the ASU2025 Junior Pan American Games these weeks: “Paraguay truly has talent. Paraguay can do it, and we are proving it in every competition we are participating in, across different sports.”
To follow his speed skating journey, check Julio Mirena on instagram.
