FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18: Jessica Lewis was “oh so close” to medaling in her debut at the ParaPan Am Games in Mexico.
The wheelchair athlete competed in the 100 metres on Wednesday and clocked 20.78 0 just 0.03 out of the bronze medal spot.
American Chelsea McClammer, won the race by clocking 19.39; Sarah White was second in 20.55 while Yadira Soturno of Venezuela was third in 20.75
Cheryl Leitner was fifth in 23.76.
Lorrie Lewis, chef de mission for Bermuda and Jessica’s mom, said: “Chelsea McClammer is an amazing athlete from the USA. She won the 5000m race on Tuesday and won the 100m today.
“Yadira Soturno from Venezuela has been racing for 12 years in many international events — Jessica certainly held her own against these seasoned athletes.”
Lorrie Lewis added that Jessica was “not nervous” and the race was “amazing.”
“She sure looked amazing out there — Such a proud moment for Bermuda.
Celebrity
“After the race she was interviewed, then came and found us.
“While we were all hugging and congratulating her, people kept coming up to her and asking to take their picture with her.
“It took us a while to get to the bus as people kept stopping her for pictures.
“She was a real celebrity.”
Lewis was scheduled to compete in the 200m last night.
Lorrie Lewis said the Bermuda group, which includes Jessica’s coach Gerry Swan, has been treated well. Each country participating in the ParaPan Ams received a beaded guitar.
“The people of Guadalajara have been wonderful.
“They are so helpful and proud that the ParaPan Am games are here.
“The cheering at the stadium when one of the Mexicans is racing is crazy loud.”
She said several locals have been recruited to help cheer on Jessica.