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Erick Barrondo won Guatemala's first ever medal in Olympic history with silver in the men's 20 kilometres walk on Saturday and hoped his win would inspire youngsters back home to forego violence for sport. The 21-year-old, who finished behind China's Chen Ding, said that if this brought a reduction in his impoverished country's problems with gang violence it would be another victory. "It is well known that Guatemala has problems with guns and knives," said Barrondo. "I hope that this medal inspires the kids at home to put down guns and knives and pick up a pair of trainers instead. If they do that, I will be the happiest guy in the world."
As some of you know, Guatemala is my adopted country. I was so happy to hear of an Olympic medal (first ever for Guatemala) being won. But when I read about this guy and his comments it really made my day. I hope his wish comes true, at least for some of the kids in this country.