The Olympic Dream and the Shadow of Pérez in Madrid

Karlstrom: The Olympic Dream and the Shadow of Pérez in Madrid

The Swedish walker reveals his preparation for Los Angeles 2028 and the Ecuadorian's inspiration in the Spanish capital.

Elite athletics, that crucible of effort, dedication and dreams, has in Perseus Karlstrom to one of its most resilient protagonists. The Swede, with a track record that is already full of successes—European champion and runner-up in the world walker in 2023—has set his sights on the horizon of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. In a revealing talk with Agencia EFE, Karlstrom shared the details of his meticulous preparation, marked by the search for the long-awaited Olympic medal, a metal that resists him but that he pursues with the tenacity of a predator.

The conversation took place in Madrid, a setting that Karlstrom knows and appreciates, and where he met a figure that he himself describes as an “inspiration”: the Ecuadorian Jefferson Perez. Pérez, a living legend of marching, whose career shone with its own light in his time, represents for Karlstrom a beacon of knowledge and perseverance. “It is completely incredible what he has achieved,” confesses the Swede, admired by Pérez's ability to remain in the elite for so long.

Karlstrom, born in Eskilstuna in 1990, is at 36 years old an undisputed leader in the world march. His career speaks for itself: four-time national champion in Sweden, two-time European medalist (one gold and one silver), four times in World Cups (one silver and three bronzes) and two golds in World Cups. However, the crowning glory, the crown jewel he longs to add to his already impressive collection, is an Olympic medal.

His preparation for Los Angeles 2028 is not a bed of roses. Recently, Karlstrom was forced to withdraw from the World Team Championships in Brazil due to illness, followed by another infection that kept him off the court and on antibiotics for most of April. “I'm looking for sensations to see how my body breathes,” he admits candidly. Despite the setbacks, the last few weeks have shown significant improvement. His victory in Rio Maior two weeks ago and good training in Madrid are encouraging signs.

The Madrid Marcha International Grand Prix, an event that Karlstrom has won in previous editions, is presented as his most immediate challenge. This competition not only serves as a thermometer of his state of form, but also as an opportunity to measure himself against the best in an environment that he values ​​greatly. “Competing here is one of the things I like most every year,” he says with a smile.

Karlstrom's command of Spanish is another detail that draws attention. His fluidity was forged in Mexico, during the winter training camps he has held there since 2010. He seeks “company and good conditions to train,” and the altitude of the Mexican capital has become a key ally in his preparation.

Interestingly, Karlstrom has never trained at Sierra Nevada, despite its fame as a high-performance center. “No, I have never trained there, and I wouldn't like it either,” he explains. His objection lies in the orography of the place: “as it is a hill, there are only five hundred flat meters, and there is a lot of up and down.” He prefers other enclaves that offer better conditions for the altitude.

Looking towards the near future, the Birmingham European Championship was emerging as a primary objective. “Until the end of March, when I got sick, they were very good,” he admits. His main goal now is the marathon, so his focus has shifted to “long distance and more 4:10 and 4:30 miles.” He is no longer looking for pure speed, but for the resistance that allows him to face longer distances with guarantees.

The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, although they may seem distant, occupy a central place in their planning. “The two years since Paris have passed very quickly and I think the same thing will happen,” he reflects. The key, according to him, lies in “always doing things well and thinking about the future.” The imminence of a World Cup next year underlines the importance of maintaining constant progression.

Karlstrom has also spoken out about the continued distance changes implemented by World Athletics. Although he is not directly opposed to the modifications, he criticizes the speed with which they have been produced. “The changes have come very quickly, from almost a few months to another. That has been the bad thing,” he laments. This speed has harmed many athletes, especially those who competed in the 50 km, and who were forced to adapt to new distances without enough time. “It's sad,” he concludes.

Karlstrom's passion for marching seems to be a family legacy, although with nuances. His parents practiced this discipline, but as a child he explored various sports. It was his mother who introduced him to walking at the age of seven, and from then on, his crush was instantaneous. Unlike his little brothers, who didn't feel the same connection.

Walking in Sweden currently does not enjoy the same popularity as in the past. After the dissolution of a specific walking federation and its integration into the athletics federation until 2023, the sport has seen a decline in the number of practitioners. Karlstrom remembers a time with many marchers, but the lack of generational change and the cessation of recruiting activities starting in the nineties marked a turning point. Although the athletics federation is experiencing growth, the pool of young walkers is scarce, which predicts future long-term development.

Despite the difficulties, Karlstrom feels recognized in his country, and his figure inspires many children to try walking. However, the lack of clubs and the poor effort of the federation in the past have hindered expansion. “Now things are better, but it will take a few years to see how the change is taking place,” he says with hope.

Frequently Asked Questions about Perseus Karlstrom and Race Walking

Who is Perseus Karlstrom?

Perseus Karlstrom is an outstanding Swedish athlete, European champion and world runner-up in race walking in 2023. He is one of the world leaders in his discipline.

What is Karlstrom's main goal in his career?

His big goal is to get an Olympic medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. In addition, he is focusing on improving his performance in the marathon.

What influence does Jefferson Pérez have on Karlstrom?

Karlstrom considers Jefferson Pérez, a marching legend, as a great “inspiration” and greatly values ​​his presence in Madrid.

Where did Karlstrom learn to speak Spanish?

He learned Spanish in Mexico, where he has held winter training camps since 2010.

Why doesn't Karlstrom train in Sierra Nevada?

He does not like to train in Sierra Nevada because he considers that its terrain, with many ups and downs, is not ideal for his altitude training, preferring other places.

How has the illness affected your preparation?

Karlstrom recently missed the World Team Championships and had to recover from an infection, which has affected his fitness, although he is recovering.

What does Karlstrom think about distance changes in athletics?

He criticizes the speed with which the distance changes have been implemented by World Athletics, considering that it has harmed many athletes.

Why did you choose race walking?

Although his parents practiced walking, it was his mother who introduced him to the sport at the age of seven, and since then he liked it and continued practicing it.

How is race walking in Sweden?

Currently, walking in Sweden is not widely implemented, although there is a small group of young people practicing it. Long-term growth is expected.

How does the figure of Karlstrom influence the Swedish march?

Its recognition in Sweden inspires children to try walking, although the lack of clubs and federative support has been an obstacle to its development.

If you want to know more about the world of sports and stay up to date with the latest news, join our community on Telegram: https://t.me/casino_gurus