Breaking Barriers: Sebastian "Chevi" Guzman Shatters Inline Speed Skating World Records at the European Championships

The 2024 European Inline Speed Skating Championships witnessed a historic performance as Sebastian "Chevi" Guzman set not one, but two world records, further solidifying his place among the sport’s elite. After a year-long recovery from a significant injury, Chevi's comeback was nothing short of extraordinary.

The 200-Meter Track Record

Chevi made headlines by breaking the 200-meter track world record with a blistering time of 17.002 seconds. This incredible feat eclipsed the previous record of 17.231 seconds, held by Colombia's Steven Villegas since 2021. The 200-meter race, known for its intense speed and precision, features two skaters racing simultaneously on opposite sides of the track. Only the top 12 skaters with the lowest times advance to the final, where the skater with the fastest time claims victory. 

For Chevi, this win was particularly special. His 2023 season was spent on the sidelines due to a severe injury in which he detached his abductor muscles from the bone. Following surgery and a rigorous rehabilitation process, Chevi returned to the track with a renewed determination. This victory, after being crowned world champion in 2022, marks a triumphant return to the sport.

The 100-Meter Road Record

Chevi’s winning streak continued in the 100-meter road race, where he set another world record with a time of 9.575 seconds. This record-breaking performance bested the previous record of 9.680 seconds, set by Ioseba Fernandez in 2018 in Holland. In the final, Chevi went head-to-head with Vincenzo Maiorca, emerging victorious with his superior speed and technique.

Chevi's success was in part due to his strategic choice of equipment. His skates were equipped with a unique setup of three Killer Junk wheels and one Road Reaper, a departure from the four Road Reaper wheels used by Fernandez in his record-setting performance. This innovative combination may have given Chevi the edge he needed to break the record.

A Comeback for the Ages

Chevi’s achievements at the European Championships are a testament to his resilience and unwavering commitment to the sport. After a devastating injury and a year away from competition, his record-breaking performances signal not only a personal victory but also an inspiring story of overcoming adversity. As Chevi continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in inline speed skating, the world will undoubtedly be watching.