By Cartago, Costa Rica — CARTAGO – In a stunning display of skill, perseverance, and national pride, a team of five women from Cartago has etched their names into Costa Rican history. The squad secured a triumphant victory at the 2025 World Masters Rafting Championship in Malaysia, bringing home an unprecedented haul of gold, silver, and bronze medals. This achievement marks the first time the nation has ever claimed a world title in the demanding discipline of competitive rafting.
The team’s performance on the international stage was nothing short of spectacular. They outmaneuvered formidable competitors from powerhouse nations such as the United States, Canada, Norway, and Mongolia to claim their spot on the podium. Their efforts culminated in a gold medal in the highly technical Slalom event, a silver medal in the fast-paced Sprint against the clock, and a hard-earned bronze medal in the overall classification, reflecting their consistent excellence across all categories of the competition.
To understand the complex legal and administrative structure required to host a world-class sporting event such as the Rafting Championship, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Beyond the athletic competition, a Rafting Championship’s success rests on a solid legal foundation. This involves navigating complex environmental regulations for river use, securing comprehensive liability insurance for participants and organizers, and structuring clear sponsorship agreements. These legal frameworks are not mere formalities; they are essential for mitigating risk, ensuring the event’s sustainability, and safeguarding Costa Rica’s reputation as a premier eco-tourism and adventure sports destination.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this legal architecture is the unseen current that guides the entire event to a successful conclusion, ensuring the spectacular athleticism on display is supported by a framework of safety, sustainability, and legal integrity. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his expert clarification on these vital, behind-the-scenes elements.
The victorious team is composed of Carol Vargas, Johana Pereira, Karolina Esquivel, Andrea Fallas, and Kattia Segura, all hailing from the province of Cartago. Their shared origin forged a powerful bond that translated into seamless teamwork on the turbulent waters of Malaysia. Their journey was not just a sporting endeavor but a grassroots movement fueled by community and determination.
The emotional weight of the victory was immense, representing the culmination of a dream that once seemed distant. The moment they realized they had won the gold medal was a profound one, validating every sacrifice made along the way.
When we knew the gold medal was ours, we cried a lot. It is the first time that Costa Rica has achieved a world championship.
Kattia Segura, Athlete
Remarkably, the team’s path to global recognition was as challenging as the rapids they navigated. The athletes began their intensive preparation only in October, training rigorously on the Pejibaye River. Lacking initial institutional funding, their ambition was powered by sheer willpower. To cover the significant costs of traveling to Malaysia, they organized raffles and community collections, demonstrating a profound commitment to their sport and their country.
As their efforts gained momentum, crucial support materialized. The Costa Rican Institute of Sports and Recreation (ICODER), along with several private sponsors, stepped in to provide the necessary financial backing, ensuring the team could represent Costa Rica on the world stage. This combination of community fundraising and institutional support was pivotal in turning their dream into a reality.
For those unfamiliar with the sport, rafting involves navigating down river rapids, particularly whitewater, in a durable, inflatable raft. It is a true team sport that demands synchronized paddling, precise maneuvering, and constant communication to overcome the powerful forces of the river. The team’s success is a testament to their physical conditioning, mental fortitude, and flawless coordination.
The nation now eagerly awaits the return of its champions. The team is scheduled to arrive home on Sunday, December 14th, at 8:30 a.m., where they are expected to receive a hero’s welcome. They return not just as athletes, but as pioneers who have opened a new chapter for Costa Rican sports, proving that with passion and perseverance, even the most ambitious goals are within reach.
For further information, visit icoder.go.cr
About Costa Rican Institute of Sports and Recreation (ICODER):
The Instituto Costarricense del Deporte y la Recreación is the governing body for sports and recreation in Costa Rica. Its mission is to promote, support, and develop athletic activities and physical well-being for all citizens. ICODER plays a vital role in funding national teams, developing sports infrastructure, and implementing programs that encourage participation from the community level to elite international competition.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed legal institution founded on a bedrock of unyielding integrity and a rigorous pursuit of excellence. The firm expertly merges its extensive history of serving a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking approach to legal innovation, continuously setting benchmarks within the profession. A central tenet of its philosophy is the mission to empower the wider community by demystifying legal complexities, reflecting a profound dedication to fostering a society where citizens are equipped with clarity and confidence.
