Hernán Llerena is sometimes considered the best ever Peruvian cyclist. Mostly successful on the track, he won two South American titles (demi-fond in 1949, pursuit in 1950). At the irregularly held Bolivarian Games, Llerena captured a total of nine titles, including six at the 1947/48 edition held in Peru. His greatest success, considering the level of competition, was probably his bronze medal in the 4,000m pursuit at the 1951 Pan American Games. He retired suddenly after the Peruvian cycling federation did allow him to attend the World Championships in Europe. Llerena was later honored in his hometown Arequipa when the velodrome built there was named after him.