Rafael Matiz Castañeda, a proud 2008 graduate of the Gimnasio Moderno and father of Antonio Matiz, a current M1 student, has achieved an exceptional milestone in his swimming career.
With an outstanding performance in Oceanman Panama, a prestigious open water swimming competition, Matiz earned the title of runner-up in the 5-kilometer category. This accomplishment has secured him a place in the Oceanman World Tour Final, which will be held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where he will compete alongside the world’s top open water swimmers.
Oceanman is a demanding test of physical and mental endurance, consisting of three distances—2k, 5k, and 10k—held in natural settings such as seas and lakes. Matiz, specializing in the 5k distance, has dedicated himself with discipline, hard work, and determination to excel in this challenging field. His journey in sports began when he was a student at Gimnasio Moderno, where, as he recalls, he learned to swim and achieved his first victories.
With gratitude, Matiz acknowledges the influence of his teachers and coaches at the school, who instilled in him a love for swimming and a competitive spirit that continues to drive him toward new goals.
“Now it’s time to proudly represent the school and Colombia around the world,” he expresses with pride, committing to represent Gimnasio Moderno in Dubai and serve as an example of perseverance for future generations.
The Gimnasio community can support him by following him on Instagram: @rafael.matiz
