Kati debuted for Chile in 2013. She quickly rose to prominence, winning Chile's first canoe sprint medal at the Paralympic Games with a bronze in the women's KL1 200m event at Tokyo 2020. Her success continued as she claimed gold in the same event at the 2024 World Championships in Szeged, Hungary.

Memorable Moments

Winning gold in Szeged stands out as her most memorable achievement. This victory marked her as the first Para sprint paddler from Chile to win a gold medal at the world championships. Her mother Margot has been a significant influence throughout her career.

Awards and Recognition

Kati's accolades include being named Female Para Athlete of the Year for 2023 by the Chilean Circle of Sports Journalists. She also earned titles such as Para Athlete of the Year in Biobio for 2023 and 2022, and Para Canoe Athlete of the Year multiple times between 2016 and 2021.

Role Beyond Sports

Beyond her athletic achievements, Kati is a motivational speaker for gender equality in Chile. She received an award from the National Service for Women and Gender Equality. "Women are greatly disadvantaged even today," she noted, highlighting her efforts to open doors for girls and women facing societal barriers.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Kati aims to compete at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Her journey from a rehabilitation centre to becoming a world champion exemplifies her dedication and resilience. As an athlete representative on the Pan American Canoe Federation Athletes Commission since 2019, she continues to advocate for her peers.

Kati's story is one of perseverance and triumph. Her contributions to Para canoeing and gender equality make her a notable figure in both sports and social advocacy.