Panama City is the destination for Peru’s rising judo stars, as the national team prepares to compete in the Copa Panamericana Cadete Panamá 2026, beginning March 21st. The team’s preparations have been lauded by the Federación Deportiva Peruana de Judo, with President María Martínez Murciego expressing confidence in the athletes’ ability to represent their country with “enthusiasm, commitment, and pride.”
The Peruvian squad heading to Panama includes Ruth Villanueva (-44 kg), Bianca Gonzales (-52 kg), Silvana Donayre (-57 kg), Priscila Lam (-70 kg), Italo Herrera (-55 kg), Benjamín Burnside (-55 kg), Héctor Mieres (-66 kg), Yesus Perea (-66 kg), and Axel Díaz (-81 kg). Martínez added, “We wish them the greatest success in this international experience. We are sure they will uphold the name of Peru with dedication, discipline, and a fighting spirit in every match. Travel, Peru!”
This competition marks a significant step for these cadet athletes, offering a crucial platform to gain experience and test their skills against competitors from across the Americas. The Copa Panamericana Cadete is a key event in the development pathway for young judokas, providing exposure and opportunities for growth as they progress in the sport. For many, this will be their first taste of international competition at this level, and the experience gained will be invaluable as they continue their judo journeys.
The focus isn’t solely on the future, yet. Recent success at the Copa Judo Veteranos RIO 2026 demonstrates the depth of judo talent within Peru, spanning multiple generations. The veteran team delivered a strong performance, securing a haul of medals that underscores the enduring appeal and competitive strength of the sport in the country.
Juan Enrique Bravo Flores claimed gold in the M7 -90 kg category, whereas Carlos Alonso also secured gold in the M7 -100 kg division. Joel Mora added another gold medal to the tally in the M3 -90 kg category. Silver medals were earned by César Wakabayashi (M7 -81 kg) and Colbert Guevara (M8 -66 kg), and Fernando Chávez rounded out the medal count with a bronze in the M -90 kg category. These results highlight the dedication and skill of Peru’s more experienced judokas, proving that age is no barrier to success on the tatami.
The success of the veteran team provides inspiration for the younger athletes preparing for Panama. It demonstrates a strong judo culture within Peru, where commitment to the sport extends across all age groups. The leadership of coach Yuliana Bolívar will be instrumental in guiding the cadet team through the challenges of the Pan American Cadets. Bolívar, a decorated judoka herself, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role.
Bolívar’s own accomplishments include a bronze medal in the women’s +78 kg event at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, where she defeated Nina Cutro-Kelly of the United States. She also secured a bronze medal at the 2020 Pan American Judo Championships in Guadalajara, Mexico, and competed at the 2021 World Judo Championships in Budapest, Hungary. Her profile showcases a distinguished career and a deep understanding of the sport.
Beyond the competitive arena, Yuliana Bolívar is actively involved in the development of judo in Peru. Recent social media posts on her Facebook page reveal her involvement in organizing the World Judo Cadets Championship, demonstrating her commitment to fostering the next generation of judokas. This dedication extends beyond coaching, encompassing administrative and organizational roles within the Peruvian judo community.
The Federación Deportiva Peruana de Judo is clearly focused on building a sustainable future for the sport, investing in both its rising stars and its established veterans. The combination of experienced leadership, dedicated athletes, and a supportive federation creates a promising outlook for Peruvian judo on the international stage. The Copa Panamericana Cadete Panamá 2026 represents a key opportunity to showcase this progress and build momentum for future success.
Following the Pan American Cadets, the team’s schedule will be determined by qualification pathways for larger international events, including potential appearances at the Junior World Championships and, the Olympic Games. The performance in Panama will be closely watched by selectors as they assess the potential of these young athletes for future competitions.
Fans can follow updates on the team’s progress through the Federación Deportiva Peruana de Judo’s official channels and Yuliana Bolívar’s social media accounts. The dedication and hard work of these athletes are a source of national pride, and their journey is one worth following.
What are your predictions for the Peruvian team at the Copa Panamericana Cadete Panamá 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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