Tribute to Héctor Bedolla Guerrero (1957-2026)

UIPM pays tribute to Héctor Bedolla Guerrero, a highly respected figure in Mexican sport whose lifelong contribution to swimming and Modern Pentathlon left a lasting legacy as an athlete, coach, leader and educator.

Born in 1957, Bedolla began his sporting career as a swimmer representing the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, where he achieved multiple national and international successes, establishing himself as a leading figure in competitive swimming.

He later transitioned into coaching within the same institution, continuing to build his expertise before taking on a leadership role as Director of the Centro Acuático Morelos. This experience marked the beginning of a new chapter in Modern Pentathlon, where he initially worked as a swimming specialist before progressing to key positions within the Federación Mexicana de Pentatlón Moderno, including Coordinator of Coaches and Technical Director.

Through these roles, Bedolla played a significant part in the development and professionalisation of Modern Pentathlon in Mexico. He was also deeply committed to education, delivering courses in swimming, training systems and sports methodology, and contributing to the evolution of the sport, including involvement in the early development of Laser Run competitions and the adaptation of training approaches following international rule changes.

His expertise extended to major event organisation, where he served on organising committees for international competitions across Mexico, Cuba and the Dominican Republic, including Central American and Caribbean Games, NORCECA and Pan American Phampionships, as well as UIPM Pentathlon World Cups and Pentathlon World Championships hosted in Mexico.

Throughout his career, Bedolla was instrumental in designing and implementing training programmes for leading Mexican pentathletes. Among them were Ismael Hernández, Olympic bronze medallist, Óscar Soto, Olympic finalist and former world No. 2, and Marlene Sánchez, the first Mexican female pentathlete to compete at the Olympic Games.

“Héctor Bedolla Guerrero dedicated his life to the growth of our sport and the development of athletes and coaches in Mexico,” said Juan Manzo, President of the Mexican Modern Pentathlon Federation. “His legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”

UIPM extends its sincere condolences to his family, friends and the entire Mexican pentathlon community.