In the 2021 World Freediving Championship held in Serbia, the athlete secured an impressive 3rd place finish by reaching a remarkable distance of 209 meters in the dynamic with bi-fins category. This achievement showcased exceptional skill, endurance, and mental fortitude, marking a significant milestone in the athlete’s freediving career. Competing against top international athletes, this performance not only highlighted their dedication and rigorous training but also set a new personal best, earning recognition and respect within the freediving community. The athlete’s journey to this podium finish involved meticulous preparation, advanced techniques, and a deep understanding of the sport’s physiological demands, underscoring their status as one of the elite competitors in the field.
Starting in 2016, María Verónica has conquered 21 national records in freediving across various pool disciplines: static, dynamic, dynamic with bi-fins, and dynamic without fins. Her relentless pursuit of excellence and passion for freediving have propelled her to the forefront of the sport in her country. María Verónica’s achievements are a testament to her rigorous training regimen, mental resilience, and profound understanding of the underwater environment. Each record she sets not only raises the bar for other competitors but also inspires a new generation of freedivers. Her journey is marked by continuous improvement and an unwavering commitment to pushing the limits of human potential in the aquatic realm. As she continues to dominate the national scene, María Verónica’s legacy grows, cementing her status as a pioneering figure in the world of freediving.
María Verónica was the first woman on the continent to reach the 200-meter distance in pool freediving, a groundbreaking achievement that has set a new standard in the sport. To this date, her most recent records are equally impressive: 7 minutes and 08 seconds holding her breath in static apnea, 225 meters in dynamic with bifins, 213 meters in dynamic apnea, and 154 meters in dynamic without fins. These records highlight her unparalleled skill, dedication, and the exceptional physical and mental discipline required to excel in freediving.
María Verónica began her journey in the world of freediving in 2016 as a hobby alongside her husband. “Since that year, I managed to place in the top positions in national competitions,” comments the athlete, who just one year later won four gold medals at the 2017 Pan American Championships in Mexico. “I managed to rank first in all four disciplines (Dynamic with bi-fins, Dynamic with monofin, Dynamic without fins, and Static), despite it being my first international competition, where nerves were running high. Additionally, I achieved two records: static and dynamic with bi-fins!”
Her rapid ascent in the sport is a testament to her natural talent and the intense training regimen she adopted early in her career. María Verónica’s success at the Pan American Championships was a pivotal moment, propelling her onto the international stage and solidifying her reputation as a formidable competitor. Her ability to perform under pressure and achieve such remarkable results in her first international outing speaks volumes about her dedication and mental strength.
Dive into the extraordinary journey of Maria Verónica, a civil engineer turned world-class freediver. Follow her path from humble beginnings to becoming a record-breaking athlete, defying odds and pushing boundaries along the way. Witness the passion, dedication, and resilience that propel her to greatness in the mesmerizing depths of the ocean. Join Maria Verónica as she inspires and empowers with each graceful stroke beneath the waves. Experience the highs and lows of her remarkable career, and gain insight into the unique challenges and triumphs of a top athlete in the demanding world of freediving. This captivating documentary, created by Raul Nomada, beautifully captures Maria Verónica’s spirit and dedication to her sport.
Maria Verónica, a civil engineer with a Master’s degree in Environmental and Water Resources from Cornell University, USA, discovered her passion for freediving in 2016. It all began with a challenge from her best friend to hold her breath for as long as she could, and she effortlessly lasted two minutes and thirty seconds. From that moment, she knew that the world of freediving was where she belonged.
Freediving taught Maria Verónica invaluable life lessons beyond mere technique and discipline. She learned to embrace discomfort and adaptability, skills she applies in her everyday life, especially during challenging times such as adjusting to married life and motherhood. Through freediving, she discovered the power of resilience and acceptance in navigating through life’s obstacles.
Maria Verónica’s journey in freediving has shown her that with determination and effort, any goal is achievable. From becoming a mother to relentless training for podium placements in global championships, she exemplifies how perseverance and dedication can turn dreams into reality.
In June 2021, Maria Verónica achieved a remarkable feat by securing third place in the World Championship in Serbia. In 2022 this record was beaten by María Verónica herself by reaching a massive distance of 225,30 meters, about 4 and a half Olympic pools with one single breath. Her outstanding performance garnered attention worldwide, showcasing her talent and dedication on the international stage.
Maria Verónica’s success is especially noteworthy as she represents Ecuador. Her achievements demonstrate not only her talent and dedication but also her ability to overcome barriers and shine on the global stage. Additionally, her versatility and skill across various freediving disciplines are commendable and worthy of admiration.
María’s husband
maría’s couch
maría’s children