The year 2025 marked a breakthrough in Julio Mirena’s career. He now stands as one of Paraguay’s most visible athletes, carrying the country’s flag onto international tracks and slowly reshaping what is possible for speed skating in the region. Born abroad and later settling in Paraguay, Mirena chose to represent the country at the highest level of competition. In recent years, that decision has paid off. His performances on the international stage have placed Paraguay on the global skating map and marked a turning point.
For Mirena, however, the year 2025 is not only about medals. It is about growth, purpose, and belonging. “More than a weight, it is a feeling of excitement and challenge,” he says to The Asunción Times when asked what it means to compete for Paraguay. “Achieving it brings a sense of happiness and pride.”
A year that changed everything
2025 marked his breakthrough: Competing at the World Games in Chengdu, China, he became the only Paraguayan athlete at the event. He delivered a historic performance, winning a gold medal in the 5,000-metre points race and a silver medal in the 10,000-metre points race. Earlier, at the World Skate Games, he secured a bronze medal, marking the first world-level medal ever achieved by a speed skater representing Paraguay.
Looking back on the season, he describes it as a moment of clarity. “It is a moment of satisfaction. 2025 turned out exactly as planned. For me, it is an immense joy to achieve all these goals for the people of Paraguay, for my people, because I feel supported by you all.”
That support, he explains, has become more visible as his profile grows. “Now that I have been able to represent Paraguay with dignity, people support me a little more. I know I came to settle in Paraguay and help grow the sport. Every time I compete, I try to honour that support as much as possible.”
Mirena: “We can make a difference.”
For Mirena, success is not measured only in results. It is also about impact. “It moves me deeply to leave a sporting legacy for the boys and girls of Paraguay. Everything begins by adding a small grain of sand. With that, we can make a difference.”
His presence alone has helped bring visibility to speed skating, inspiring young athletes to imagine themselves on international tracks and showing that global success is possible from Paraguay.
The quiet side of high performance
Behind the podiums, there is sacrifice. “For high-performance athletes, sacrifices are part of everyday life. One of the hardest things is being far from home and from the people you love, family and friends.”
Balance, he explains, comes from simplicity. “I smile, regardless of adversity. I share time with the people around me and live in the moment.”
And what would he say to the version of himself starting the year 2025? His answer is calm and certain. “I would tell him to enjoy what he has dreamed of for so long. He is on the right path. It has taken time, but he is achieving it and tomorrow will be even better.”
Julio Mirena does more than compete for medals. He helps bring attention to speed skating in Paraguay and creates opportunities for younger athletes. Each race adds to his experience and influence, leaving a mark that could shape the sport’s future in Paraguay.
To follow his speed skating journey, check Julio Mirena on Instagram.
