Guatemala made history at the Games by securing its first-ever gold medal, thanks to Adriana Ruano's outstanding performance in the women's trap shooting event. Ruano's exceptional display set an Olympic record as she only missed five shots out of 50 attempts at Chateauroux.
Throughout the competition, Ruano remained composed and focused, maintaining a four-point lead over her closest competitor, Silvana Maria Stanco from Italy, as they entered the final 10 shots. With precision and skill, Ruano sealed her victory with a final score of 45, surpassing the previous Olympic record of 43 set in Tokyo.
The world record of 48, set by American Ashley Carroll in 2018, still stands as the highest score in the discipline. The intensity of the moment overwhelmed the 29-year-old Ruano as she fought back tears while draped in Guatemala's flag during the emotional medal ceremony.
Stanco claimed the silver medal with a score of 40, while Penny Smith of Australia secured the bronze with 32 hits out of 40 shots. Ruano's remarkable achievement not only brought glory to Guatemala but also showcased her exceptional talent and dedication to the sport of trap shooting.
