Born: 1963 (Valladolid, Spain)
Biography:
Miriam Guadalupe Blasco Soto, born on December 12, 1963, is a Spanish former judoka and politician. She holds a significant place in both Spanish and women’s history as the first Spanish athlete to win a medal at the Summer Olympic Games and the first Spanish Olympic champion, winning gold in Barcelona in 1992.
Blasco’s connection to sports runs in her family, with her father being a physical education teacher and her mother owning a sports store. Growing up in Valladolid, Blasco and her eight siblings were all encouraged to participate in sports. With judo being a family selection process, Blasco found herself drawn to the sport at a young age and became passionate about it.
As she grew older, Blasco’s dedication to judo led her to Alicante, where she believed the environment was more conducive to her practice. In Alicante, she pursued her studies in Teaching and also taught judo classes. Blasco’s immense talent and determination led her to achieve remarkable success in her judo career.
On July 31, 1992, Blasco made history by becoming the first Spanish athlete to win a gold medal at the Olympic Games. Competing in the –56 kg category, she emerged victorious in Barcelona and opened the door for Spanish women in terms of Olympic success. Her triumph was especially poignant as Blasco dedicated her gold medal to her coach, Sergio Cardell, who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident shortly before the event.
Blasco’s accomplishments were not limited to the Olympics. She also excelled in other international judo competitions, earning two medals at the World Judo Championships in 1989 and 1991, and five medals at the European Judo Championships between 1988 and 1994. Her consistent performances on the world stage solidified her status as one of the top judokas of her time.
After retiring from her sporting career, Blasco transitioned into the political sphere. She worked as a commentator for Spanish Television during the Sydney 2000 Olympics before entering politics as a member of the Popular Party. Blasco was elected as a senator for Alicante in the General Elections of 2000, 2004, and 2008. From 2011 to 2015, she served as a deputy. In addition to her political career, Blasco was also a member of the Women’s Commission of the Spanish Olympic Committee and served as President of the Special Commission on the situation of athletes at the end of their careers.
Miriam Blasco’s contributions to Spanish sports and politics are undeniable. Her groundbreaking achievements in judo paved the way for future Spanish athletes, particularly women, to strive for greatness. Blasco’s determination, talent, and passion continue to inspire generations to come.
Awards:
– Gold Medal, Olympic Games (Barcelona 1992)
– Gold Medal, World Judo Championships (Barcelona 1991)
– Bronze Medal, World Judo Championships (Belgrade 1989)
– Gold Medal, European Judo Championships (Prague 1991)
– Silver Medal, European Judo Championships (Pamplona 1988)
– Bronze Medal, European Judo Championships (Helsinki 1989)
– Bronze Medal, European Judo Championships (Paris 1992)
– Bronze Medal, European Judo Championships (Gdańsk 1994)