How Viviana Aroche broke national and Central American records in Barcelona

Viviana Aroche, the Guatemalan long-distance runner, has achieved a historic milestone in her athletic career after setting new national and Central American records in the half marathon during a competition in Barcelona. The result reflects more than a decade of disciplined training and consistent effort, positioning her among the elite runners in Latin America.

A decade of discipline behind a historic finish

For the athlete, crossing the finish line was the culmination of 10 years of dedication and preparation.

“I felt comfortable throughout the entire race. Usually the first half is faster than the second, but in this case my last half was quicker. That means I was doing very well and it left me wanting more,” Aroche said.

The new record not only represents a historic milestone for Guatemala and Central America, but also strengthens her position within the Latin American elite in long-distance running.

“I feel very happy because all hard work eventually pays off. I believe the reward for me is happening now,” she added.

A race designed to break records

The Barcelona half marathon was selected strategically due to its course conditions and proximity to sea level, which make it an ideal event for record-breaking performances.

Aroche entered the race with a clear plan and maintained strict discipline across each kilometer.

“These races are designed for records because they are very fast courses, and I had that objective in mind. I was consistently meeting the pace for each kilometer, and by the halfway point I felt really good,” she explained.

Beyond the sporting achievement, the record also carries emotional significance for her family and for her teammates in Blue Team, the social project created by Blue Corporation.

“My family loves hearing that it was a national and Central American record, especially my father, because he was the one who introduced me to this sport,” she said.

Aroche also reflected on the broader meaning of pursuing goals.

“Everyone has goals, not just in sports, and we have to work toward them step by step. We must wake up every day with the hope of reaching the finish line, because dreams don’t come looking for us—we have to go after them.”

Representing Guatemala on the international stage

Competing internationally carries a deeper meaning for Aroche. In global competitions, she explains that she no longer represents only herself, but her country.

“When I go to an international competition, I’m no longer just Viviana — I’m Guatemala. I’ve been fortunate to compete in several international races and feel the emotion of carrying my country’s flag and hearing people say, ‘She’s from Guatemala.’ That’s something that stays with you forever,” the runner said.

Blue Team: support that transforms talent into results

The support of Blue Corporation has played a significant role in Aroche’s development as an elite athlete. Since joining the company’s sponsorship program, she has begun achieving national records and expanding her professional career.

For the Barcelona competition, the organization’s backing made it possible for her to travel and receive continuous support throughout the preparation process.

The Blue Team initiative was created with a clear purpose: giving back to the community and supporting talented athletes who often face difficult circumstances.

“As a telecommunications company, we wanted to do things differently and give something back. We identified athletes with great potential who, despite living in adverse conditions, were already performing at semi-elite or elite levels,” said Lester E. Paz, CEO of Blue Corporation, who is also a runner.

According to Paz, the goal is to provide international exposure so athletes can eventually reach the highest levels of competition.

“The idea is to help them compete internationally so they can reach events like the Olympic Games. Having a sponsoring team is key to providing the support they need. Viviana joined with the backing of Blue Corporation, began breaking national records, and continues to grow professionally,” he said.

Aroche emphasized that discipline remains fundamental to her progress.

“I take care of every aspect that can help me improve as an athlete, and I avoid things that could hold me back. I also feel blessed by God,” she said.

Throughout her career, the runner has achieved five national records, with Blue Corporation supporting her closely over the last three to four years.

Goals that keep growing

Following this historic result, Aroche is already focused on her next challenges. Among her main goals for this year are the Central American and Caribbean Games, where she plans to compete in two events: the half marathon and the 10,000 meters, both of which she has already qualified for.

With discipline, a clear vision, and the support of the Blue Team project, the Guatemalan runner continues proving that major achievements are built step by step.

Her journey shows that dreams are not simply reached by chance—they require perseverance, preparation, and the determination to keep moving forward until crossing the finish line.