PANAMA CITY, Aug. 19 (Xinhua) -- Panamanian President Martin Torrijos said in Tuesday that the sports city under construction in the capital of the country will have the name of Irving Saladino, who won the gold medal in long jump at the Olympic Games of Beijing.
"We are determinate to name the sports complex with the name of Saladino in recognition to the first Olympic (gold) medal that our country has," Torrijos told the press.
According to Torrijos this gesture is a recognition to that example for the youth, that with a lot of determination and courage has vibe of excitement to all Panamanians when he won the gold medal in Beijing, by jumping 8.34 meters.
"This is a deserved recognition, that (Saladino) has won, as he has won the love and admiration of all the Panamanians," Torrijos said during a press conference at the shore of Panama Canal.
Torrijos also promised that his government will expand the sports excellence scholarships, to encourage the sports among youth.
"We understand the efforts that families make to help their sons in difficult circumstances, that is why I agree that there is more to update regarding the aid to athletes, not only when they leave the country but also for the training," Torrijos said.
Saladino is an example of overcoming and perseveration for all the youth, because with dedication he achieved the triumph which honors the name of Panama, Torrijos said.
"Through Irving, and other athletes, that have gone to the Olympics I have had the experience of knowing the great sacrifice and the expensive costs that mean to train to represent the country," Torrijos said.
Torrijos said that Saladino will have a welcome as national glory, because he filled with joy and proud the entire nation.
Torrijos said that Saladino's gold medal has been a triumph for him and all the Panamanians, and to hear the national hymn during the awarding ceremony in Beijing made him feel very proud.
Saladino also is 2007 world champion of long jump with 8.57 meters and he will arrive at Panama City on Aug. 21.
