Ricardo Ten's wonderful response to those who criticized the UCI for gifting him a watch even though he has no hands

In the recent World Cycling Championships held in Glasgow, the figure that has shone most brightly on the Spanish scene has undoubtedly been that of Ricardo Ten. This Valencian cyclist has said goodbye to the competition with an amazing feat, winning six medals in total, three of which are gold. An achievement that not only consolidates his personal legend, but also further enriches a record that is already considered legendary.

However, despite his triumph on the roads of Glasgow, Ricardo Ten has been the subject of attention in social networks for reasons unrelated to his outstanding performance. Each world champion in this event receives as a gift a watch from the prestigious brand Tissot, official sponsor of the competition. In Ten's particular case, this tradition became the epicenter of a controversy that generated varied and even mocking reactions.

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The controversy centres on the apparent contradiction between the gift of a watch to an athlete who has no wrists due to his disability and the very concept of a watch as a prize. On social networks, there was no shortage of comments critical of the International Cycling Union (UCI) for offering this type of gift to Ten. However, Ten himself demonstrated a remarkable ability to handle the situation with grace and determination.

The Valencian cyclist decided to address the controversy in a witty and courageous way, sharing a video in which he appears wearing one of Tissot's watches, strapped to his arm, while proudly shouting: "What time is it? The time of the world champion." In the message accompanying the video, Ten expressed his gratitude to the brand for believing in inclusion and the world of possibilities it represents.

In this context, Ricardo Ten has emphasized a key point: equality. Through comments and repostings on his social media profile, the Paralympic cyclist has highlighted that the delivery of watches by Tissot to both Paralympic athletes and non-disabled riders is a gesture of equality and fairness in the world of sport. "I don't think all participants had the same problem, right? It was foreseen that gift and it was given very well. He already gives it away, sells it or keeps it for himself. I think it would have been more discriminatory not to give it to this," Ten said in response to a comment.

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In the midst of this controversy, Ten has made it clear that what really matters is not the object itself, but the meaning behind it. Tissot watches can be purchased by anyone, but winning one as a prize is a distinction reserved for a select few. His attitude and response to this situation reflect his resilient character and his determination to promote inclusion in sport.

Ricardo Ten has proven once again that, beyond controversy and adversity, his focus is on self-improvement and using his platform to promote a message of inclusion and equity in the world of cycling and sport in general. Her presence at the World Cycling Championships in Glasgow has not only left a mark for her impressive victories, but also for her ability to face the challenges along the way with aplomb.

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Ricardo Ten

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Thank you @TISSOT for believing in this super world of inclusion #Glasgowscotland2023 #Paracycling

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