FUNCHAL, Madeira, Portugal – 55 nations and more than 2000 athletes took part in the Championships this year. Great Britain was the largest with 316, followed by the United States with 256.

The best part of the adventure was being a member of Team USA. How proud I was to march in the Parade of Nations with my American Flag waving to everyone.

After crossing the Finish Line, and winning the 2004 ITU world championship title, I became the first Physically Challenged Athlete originally from South America to represent the USA Triathlon Team.

Here, Some pictures of the race:

Crossing the Finish Line and becoming the 2004 Triathlon World Champion

Portuguese Newspaper

Mabio's Participation at the 2004 Triathlon World Championship was possible due to the Sponsorship of:

http://www.chep.com

**Due to lack of sponsorship I was not able to represent the colors of the USA and defend my title at the 2005 World Championship.