Costa Rica is stepping up its commitment to Olympic success: the national Olympic committee (CON) has granted monthly scholarships to 11 Costa Rican athletes from September 2025 until the Los Angeles 2028 Games. The support ranges from US$ 500 to US$ 1,500 per month, depending on each athlete’s discipline, performance history, and prospects.
A Broader Commitment to Athletic Excellence
Traditionally, Olympic solidarity funds are directed to a limited number of athletes. However, in this cycle, the CON expanded the support to 11 competitors, aiming to broaden the chances of qualification and to invest more widely in Costa Rica’s athletic potential. The total monthly investment amounts to US$ 9,150, a sum now distributed among more athletes than in past cycles.
Among those receiving the highest support is Brisa Hennessy (surf), who will receive US$ 1,500 monthly — a recognition of her strong international trajectory and past Olympic participation. At the other end, Sharon Herrera (marching athletics), one of the younger beneficiaries, receives US$ 500. Intermediate amounts are granted to athletes in disciplines like athletics, judo, BMX, taekwondo, and wrestling.
In addition to financial support, athletes will gain access to interdisciplinary services managed by CON: physiotherapy, nutrition, strength and conditioning, travel logistics, and participation support in regional and global qualifying events.
Why This Matters
This expanded scholarship program signifies a strategic shift: rather than concentrating resources on a few elite athletes, Costa Rica is spreading investment across a broader pool to uncover and support talent with potential. It recognizes that Olympic success is not just about standout stars but also about depth, perseverance, and strategic development.
By giving younger and less established athletes support, the program helps reduce financial barriers that often limit training, international exposure, and access to high-performance coaching. It also sends a message of confidence: that Costa Rica is serious about the long game in sports development.
Challenges and Expectations
While the scholarships provide crucial support, they do not guarantee Olympic qualification. Athletes must still compete in national, regional, and international competitions and earn their place through performance or ranking systems.
Monitoring, accountability, and resource sustainability will be central to the program’s success. Ensuring that funds are used effectively—in training, travel, equipment, coaching—is essential.
Looking to 2028
As the Paris 2024 experience fades into memory, Costa Rica sets its sights on 2028 with renewed momentum. The CON’s decision to expand support to 11 athletes underlines a vision of greater inclusion, deeper investment, and higher ambition. Whether this approach yields medals remains to be seen, but the pathway is clearer: a country committed to elevating its athletes, one scholarship at a time.
