HECTOR PAGAN ATLETA BARRANQUITREÑO YOUTUBE @eljeffrazotv

🇵🇷 Héctor Pagán Ortiz is a rising star in Puerto Rican athletics, hailing from the town of Barranquitas. Known as “El Capitán”, he’s made a name for himself in long-distance running and has become one of the most decorated athletes in the Liga Atlética Interuniversitaria (LAI).

🏅 Career Highlights
- Gold medalist in the 5,000 meters at the 2023 Central American and Caribbean Games in San Salvador
- Silver medalist at the NACAC U-23 Championships
- Gold medalist at the Pan American U-23 Games in 2021
- Top 8 finish in the 5,000 meters at the 2023 Pan American Games in Chile
- Most Valuable Athlete in LAI for four consecutive years: 2022–2025

⏱️ Personal Bests
| Event | Time | Year |
|----------------|------------|------------|
| 1,500 meters | 3:41.24 | 2024 |
| 5,000 meters | 14:26.22 | 2024 |
| 10,000 meters | 29:27.72 | 2025 |
| Half Marathon | 1:04:47 | 2024 |

🌟 Local Impact
Héctor is a product of the Próceres Runners Club, a well-organized athletic program in Barranquitas that has developed over 160 university-level athletes and 48 international competitors since 2000. His coach, Ramón Nieves, has played a key role in nurturing talent in the region.

🧠 Fun Fact
He broke a 43-year-old LAI record in the 10,000 meters, previously held by Héctor “Papo” Díaz.

He’s not just fast—he’s focused, humble, and deeply connected to his community. Want to explore more about Puerto Rican athletes or dive into the world of fondismo?