Toronto 2015 Parapan American bronze medal winner Fernando Acevedo lifted 135 kilograms to triumph in the men's under 80kg class at the Powerlifting Arena.

He finished comfortably clear of Honduras' Gabriel Zelaya, who lifted 110kg for second, and Panama's Gabriel Vasquez, who managed 95kg for third.

“I am so happy because I could win this title in my country with my people. It is very special,” said Acevedo afterwards.

Enoc Ponza claimed the second Nicaraguan victory in the under 59kg division.

He managed a 125kg lift to defeat El Salvador's Ricardo Javier Ortiz, who lifted 73kg for second place.

Nicaragua enjoyed mixed fortunes elsewhere as preliminary action concluded in wheelchair basketball at the Polideportivo España.

Their men's team narrowly beat El Salvador 51-43 after a strong final quarter.

This set-up a semi-final clash with Guatemala, who beat Panama 65-40 today.

Costa Rica beat Honduras 53-36 to ensure they also progressed to the semi-finals to face the El Salvadoreans.

Nicaragua lost 9-0 to El Salvador in the corresponding women's draw.

Guatemala beat Honduras 13-3 in the day's other game.

This means that Guatemala and El Salvador will meet again in the final while Nicaragua and Honduras lock horns for bronze.