Bio
María Pérez was born in Spain and took up race walking at the age of 11 after attending an introduction talk by Spanish race walker Francisco Javier Fernández and her future coach Jacinto Garzón during a school tour. Recognizing her potential, Garzón began coaching her in 2008, and they have maintained a strong bond throughout her career.
Pérez is pursuing a degree in Teaching at the Catholic University of Murcia in Spain. Balancing her studies with her athletic career, she has managed to excel in both fields.
Club: Valencia Club de Atletismo (ESP)
Coach: Jacinto Garzón (ESP)
María Pérez married Noelia Morillas in 2023. She comes from a supportive family, with her father, Luis, and her mother, Paqui, playing significant roles in her life.
In November 2023, Pérez underwent surgery for a sacrum stress fracture but has shown resilience in her recovery and continued to compete at the highest levels.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Pérez volunteered with the Red Cross Social Emergency Unit, helping homeless people in Granada, Spain. She has always been passionate about helping others and values the experience she gained through this volunteer work.
Pérez shares a unique and deep bond with her coach, Jacinto Garzón. She credits their strong relationship and his guidance as key factors in her success, allowing her to focus entirely on her training and performance.
Tournaments
Olympic Games:
- Tokyo 2020: 4th place in the 20km race walk, achieving the best Spanish finish in this event in 21 years.
World Championships (2023):
- Gold medal in the 20km race walk
- Gold medal in the 35km race walk, becoming the second Spanish female world champion in athletics.
European Championships (2018):
- Gold medal in the 20km race walk in Berlin, Germany.
Personal Bests
- 20km Race Walk: 1:25:29
- 35km Race Walk: 2:37:15