The Argentine representatives of “unconventional” sports have been the surprise of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. After the consecration of José “Maligno” Torres Gil, who took the gold medal in the BMX freestyle event, This Monday all eyes were on José María Larocca, the Argentine rider of Swiss origin, who became a finalist in the individual jumping event and made history. His performance earned him hundreds of compliments, which multiplied on different social networks, from different parts of the world. In addition, in this context, Larocca’s charitable side came to light: he was one of those who helped the Argentine swimmer, Macarena Ceballos, to finance her Olympic preparation in the absence of a response from the national government.
Larocca is 55 years old and this is his fourth Olympic Games. At Monday’s event at the majestic Palace of Versailles, he rode his horse Finn Lente and earned a score of 73.33, placing 27th in the overall standings for the first time in his career.
Tomorrow, Tuesday, at 5 a.m. (Argentine time), he will compete for a medal for Argentina. If he wins, it will not only be a personal achievement, but also a historic milestone for equestrianism in our country.
“Nothing makes me prouder than representing Argentina and playing sports for Argentina. For my country, I really enjoy it because people are happy when I do well and I really enjoy that. In some way I want to get results for my country,” said Larocca, after his historic performance.
From Switzerland, but Argentine by choice
A striking fact that few people knew about Larocca is his Swiss origins. He was born on January 1, 1969 in Wettingen but quickly arrived in the country. At the age of 10 he began to practice horse riding, quickly standing out in this sport. In 1992 he settled in Europe and, despite living on another continent, he made the decision to represent Argentina in all international competitions. This determination has led him to become one of the most prominent representatives of national horse riding.
Having competed at the Olympic Games in Beijing 2008, London 2012, Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, he is known for his vast experience and his ability to maintain high performance over the years. He also achieved important achievements at the Pan American Games, where he won the silver medal in Toronto 2015 and Lima 2019.
Throughout his life, he lived in Europe due to work opportunities, but he never hesitated to represent Argentina, making clear his commitment and love for the South American country.
The solidarity vein
Amid the euphoria over the performance of the Argentine rider, who marked a milestone in his career by qualifying for the individual show jumping final, a fact not known to many came to light: Larocca helped the swimmer, Macarena Ceballos, financially for her Olympic preparation.
It was the athlete herself who, after her historic semi-final in the 100 breaststroke at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, thanked the rider for his support, which was fundamental to her arrival at the competition.
The Cordovan had mentioned in some interviews the economic difficulties when facing the preparation, from scholarships that are not enough to pay the rent or lack of resources to be able to buy the supplies (such as proteins and food) necessary to be able to compete in the best conditions.
Ceballos and Larocca were not in a relationship, but when the rider heard her talk about the problems she was facing, he contacted her to offer his help. Ceballos did not forget this gesture and made her gratitude public.
Afterwards, Larocca said: “I am very happy with Macarena’s results. There is not much more to say. I am very proud to support and be part of the Argentine delegation. I wish all the athletes the best of luck for the Games!”
