Ecuador's Belsy Quiñónez Wins Silver and Sets National Record at U20 World Athletics Championships

Ecuadorian shot‑putter Belsy Quiñónez captured the silver medal at the World U20 Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon, United States, on 7 August 2026. She threw 17.90 metres, establishing a new national U20 record and delivering Ecuador's first ever world‑level medal in athletics.

The 19‑year‑old from San Lorenzo, Esmeraldas, was coached by Carlos España. Quiñónez finished behind Nigeria's Jessica Oji, who won gold with 18.08 metres, and ahead of Germany's Emily Scherf, who took bronze. Following her achievement, the athlete dedicated the medal to all Ecuadorians and expressed hopes of competing at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

Her performance has been hailed as a milestone for Ecuadorian sport and highlights her potential as a future Olympic contender.