Marcelo Acosta Makes El Salvador History With First Olympic “A” Cut

Last weekend Marcelo Acosta became the first swimmer from El Salvador to qualify for the Olympic Games with an “A” cut. Acosta won the 1500m race with a  time of 15:13.09 at the third stop of the Arena Pro Series in Orlando, FL. Apart from winning the race, the swimmer also set a new National Record and placed himself in the 10th position of the FINA ranking for this event.

Prior to this year, El Salvador has sent athletes to the Olympic Games through universality or athletes that have achieved a  “B” cut.

I feel a great relief and happiness after all the training, stress, and nervousness I’ve felt prior to qualifying. I feel very satisfied with my result as I reached my expectations and that of others. This is a great responsibility for me, to become the first swimmer from El Salvador to make it but it motivates me to continue working hard. – Marcelo Acosta

Acosta will continue his preparation for the Olympic Games with the Azura Aquatics Team in Florida. The 20 year old swimmer moved to Florida a couple of years ago to better prepare himself for international meets.