Cipolletti’s Municipal Martial Arts Schools Secure Historic Wins in San Juan and Bariloche
The municipal schools of Judo and Jiu Jitsu in Cipolletti have capped off a historic weekend, delivering standout performances across two high-level competitions in San Juan and Bariloche. The results mark a significant milestone for the city’s athletic programs, showcasing a deep roster of talent capable of competing on the national stage.
The centerpiece of the weekend was the Campeonato Nacional Apertura in San Juan, where the Cipolletti municipal judokas faced some of the toughest competition in the country. Held from April 10 to 12 at the Estadio Aldo Cantoni, the tournament served as a national epicenter for the sport, drawing more than 1,500 competitors from various provinces.
Podium Success at the National Aperture
Under the guidance of senseis Yoiris Pablo and Fernández Joaquín, the judo team secured a string of podium finishes across multiple weight classes and experience levels. The delegation demonstrated versatility, with athletes placing in both age-specific and skill-based categories.
The top performers from the San Juan event include:
- Ulloa Ciro: Second place (Juvenil sub15 -81kg)
- CeleCinco Mila: Second place (Cadete N -52kg) and Third place (kiu Novicio -52kg)
- Felipe Cares: Third place (Cadete -55kg) and Third place (kiu graduado -55kg)
- Fernández Jerónimo: Third place (Cadete -90kg) and Third place (kiu graduado -90kg)
- Padin Astor: Third place (Cadete -90kg)
- Macaya Lucia: Third place (Cadete -52kg) and Third place (kiu graduado -52kg)
Beyond the podiums, several athletes secured top-five finishes, proving the program’s depth. Federico Bertola took fifth in the Cadete -81kg division, while Yoiris León placed fifth in Cadete -73kg. In the heavier divisions, Joaquín Hazeldine finished fifth in Junior +100kg and Fernández Joaquín took fifth in the Seniors -100kg category.
Expanding the Pipeline: New Categories
For a sports program, the future is often found in the debutants. The Cipolletti delegation used the national tournament in San Juan to introduce several athletes into new competitive categories. These participants gained critical experience against national-level opposition.
The newcomers included:
- Maldonado Nicolás: Juvenil 15 -50kg
- Brito Benjamín: Juvenil -15 -60kg
- Duran Sharon: Juvenil -15 -48kg
- Freire Valentino: Juvenil -15 -45kg
For those unfamiliar with the terminology, “Cadete” and “Juvenil” typically refer to youth age brackets, while “kiu” refers to the grading system used to denote a practitioner’s rank before reaching the black belt level. This distinction allows athletes to compete against peers of similar experience, ensuring fair and developmental competition.
Jiu Jitsu Representation in Bariloche
While the judokas were battling in San Juan, Cipolletti’s municipal Jiu Jitsu students were representing the city in the 5th edition of the Copa Cordillerana in Bariloche. The event further solidified the city’s presence in the regional martial arts circuit, complementing the success seen in the judo arena.
Municipal Support and Infrastructure
These achievements are the result of a structured municipal sports system. To maintain this momentum, the Municipality of Cipolletti manages open enrollment for its sports activities. For the 2026 season, in-person registrations were held on March 11 and 12 at municipal sports centers, requiring identification and adult accompaniment for minors.
The success of these schools highlights the impact of providing accessible, high-level coaching to local youth, allowing them to transition from municipal training halls to national stadiums like the Aldo Cantoni.
Key Results Summary: San Juan National Aperture
| Athlete | Placement | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Ulloa Ciro | 2nd | Juvenil sub15 -81kg |
| CeleCinco Mila | 2nd | Cadete N -52kg |
| Felipe Cares | 3rd | Cadete -55kg / Kiu Graduado -55kg |
| Fernández Jerónimo | 3rd | Cadete -90kg / Kiu Graduado -90kg |
| Macaya Lucia | 3rd | Cadete -52kg / Kiu Graduado -52kg |
With a historic weekend now in the books, the municipal schools of Cipolletti have set a high benchmark for the remainder of the 2026 competitive calendar. The city continues to establish itself as a regional powerhouse in the martial arts.
For more updates on local sports and national championships, follow our coverage here at Archysport. Do you consider municipal programs are the best way to find the next generation of Olympic talent? Let us know in the comments.
