LIMA, Peru – Thirteen-year-old Alexandra Alvizuri Flores of Ayacucho, Peru, has once again demonstrated her exceptional talent, winning the gold medal at the Supercopa Nippi 2026 judo tournament. This victory marks her second consecutive title at the competition, solidifying her position as a rising star in the regional judo scene.
Alvizuri, representing the Instituto Peruano del Deporte (IPD) Ayacucho, achieved this milestone after a dedicated two-year training regimen focused heavily on weight management to ensure she could compete effectively in her weight class. The Supercopa Nippi, a significant event for young judokas, provided a crucial platform for Alvizuri to showcase her skills and build upon her already impressive resume.
Her journey in judo began with participation in school tournaments and competitions held in cities like Paita and Piura. This early experience laid the foundation for her rapid development. Alvizuri’s dedication led to her selection for the national team, where she gained valuable international exposure representing Peru at the Pan American Judo Championships in the -52 kg division. She noted that this experience was instrumental in gauging her level against competitors from across the Americas.
The Supercopa Nippi 2026 wasn’t just a triumph for Alvizuri; it was also a successful event for Peruvian judo overall. Fellow Ayacuchano Ángel Rojas also secured a gold medal at the same tournament, further highlighting the growing strength of judo in the region.
Alvizuri’s path to success hasn’t been without its challenges. She openly acknowledges that past defeats were integral to her growth, serving as learning opportunities that strengthened her competitive spirit. This resilience, combined with her natural talent, has allowed her to consistently improve and achieve remarkable results.
The young judoka was quick to dedicate her latest achievement to her family and her coach, Cristian, recognizing their unwavering support throughout her training and competition journey. Their guidance and encouragement have been pivotal in her development as an athlete.
Looking ahead, Alvizuri aims to continue competing in upcoming tournaments, balancing her athletic pursuits with her academic education. This commitment to both areas demonstrates a well-rounded approach to her future, ensuring she has options beyond the world of sports.
For those unfamiliar with the Supercopa Nippi, it’s a highly regarded judo competition that attracts young talent from across the region. It serves as a vital stepping stone for aspiring judokas hoping to progress to higher levels of competition, including national and international championships. The tournament’s focus on youth development makes it a crucial event for identifying and nurturing the next generation of judo stars.
Alvizuri’s success story is particularly inspiring given her age. At just 13, she has already achieved a level of success that many athletes only dream of. Her dedication, discipline, and unwavering commitment to her sport serve as a powerful example for other young athletes in Peru and beyond. It’s a testament to the effectiveness of the IPD Ayacucho’s training programs and the potential within the Peruvian judo community.
The Instituto Peruano del Deporte (IPD) plays a critical role in supporting young athletes like Alvizuri, providing resources and opportunities for them to develop their skills and compete at the highest levels. The IPD’s commitment to identifying and nurturing talent is evident in the success of its athletes at events like the Supercopa Nippi.
Beyond Alvizuri’s individual achievement, the Supercopa Nippi 2026 showcased the broader strength of Peruvian judo. The event saw athletes from various regions of the country – including Lima, Loreto, and Ayacucho – collectively win a total of 25 medals. This impressive haul underscores the growing popularity and competitiveness of judo in Peru.
The IPD’s academy system, specifically highlighted by the success of its students in Huamanga, is proving to be a fertile ground for developing future judo champions. The academy’s athletes secured one gold, two silver, and five bronze medals at the Supercopa Nippi, demonstrating the effectiveness of their training methods.
Alvizuri’s gold medal came in the -44 kg category for the Sub-15 division. Roxana Flores (-70 kg) and Leonardo Yupanqui (-48 kg) added to the medal count with silver medals in the Cadete category. Rodrigo Aparicio secured two bronze medals, one in the Cadete (-81 kg) and one in the Junior (-81 kg) divisions, while Ángel Santi, Moisés Lope, and Karin Cárdenas also contributed to the team’s success with bronze medals.
As Alexandra Alvizuri continues her judo journey, she remains focused on balancing her athletic aspirations with her academic pursuits. Her next competitive steps are currently unconfirmed, but she is expected to participate in future tournaments as she strives to further refine her skills and represent Peru on the international stage. Fans can follow updates on her progress through the IPD Ayacucho’s official channels.
The success of Alvizuri and her fellow Peruvian judokas at the Supercopa Nippi 2026 is a source of national pride and a promising sign for the future of the sport in the country. It’s a story of dedication, perseverance, and the power of sport to inspire and unite.
