Hilary Lam Secures Gold at Pan American Junior Judo Championships
Guayaquil, Ecuador – Peruvian judoka Hilary Lam has claimed the gold medal at the Pan American Junior Judo Championships, demonstrating the rising strength of Peruvian judo on the international stage. The victory in the -57 kg category marks a significant achievement for the 19-year-old athlete and the Peruvian national team.
Lam defeated Brazil’s Larissa Menezes in the final to secure the top spot on the podium, according to official results from the competition. This win underscores Peru’s growing prowess in the sport, building momentum as the nation prepares to host the Pan American Games in Lima in 2027.
Rising Star in Judo
The Pan American Junior Championships, held in Guayaquil, Ecuador, serve as a crucial proving ground for young judokas aiming to compete at the highest levels. Lam’s gold medal performance highlights her dedication and skill, positioning her as a potential contender for future senior-level competitions and Olympic qualification. Judo, an Olympic sport since 1964, demands not only physical strength and technique but also strategic thinking and mental fortitude.
Lam’s journey to the gold medal wasn’t without challenges. The competition featured a strong field of athletes from across the Americas, each vying for a coveted spot on the podium. Her success in navigating these challenges demonstrates her resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
Peruvian Judo Team’s Performance
While Lam’s gold medal was the standout achievement for Peru, other Peruvian athletes also made their mark at the championships. Valentino Flores, a member of the Programa de Apoyo al Deportista (PAD) – Peru’s Athlete Support Program – finished in fifth place in the -81 kg category. Carla León also secured a fifth-place finish in the -48 kg division.
The Peruvian Kata team is also set to compete at the Pan American Kata Championships on Friday, May 1st, in the Katame-no-kata, Kime-no-kata, and Ju-no-kata disciplines. The team consists of Arianna Turkowsky, Julio Cusi, and Jonás Guanipa, all of whom are well-prepared for the challenge.
Recent Results and Rankings
Lam’s recent competitive record demonstrates her consistent progress. She placed fifth at the Lima Junior Panamerican Cup in June 2024. More recently, at the Pan American Senior Championships held on April 18, 2026, she finished seventh. Prior to that, she secured a bronze medal at the Bolivarian Games in December 2025.
As of April 30, 2026, Lam is ranked 127th in the world in the -57 kg category for seniors, with 208 points. She is also ranked 132nd in the -63 kg junior category, holding 21 points. These rankings reflect her growing presence in the international judo community.
Looking Ahead to Lima 2027
The success of Hilary Lam and her teammates at the Pan American Junior Championships serves as a positive sign for Peru as it prepares to host the Pan American Games in Lima in 2027. The experience gained at these international competitions will be invaluable as the athletes strive to reach their full potential and represent their country on home soil. The team’s continued preparation will be key to maximizing their performance at the Games.
The Pan American Games in Lima are expected to draw athletes from across the continent, creating a vibrant atmosphere and showcasing the best of Pan American sport. Peru’s judo program is aiming to capitalize on this opportunity and achieve further success on the international stage.
Next up for Hilary Lam and the Peruvian judo team is continued training and preparation for upcoming international events, with a focus on building towards the Pan American Games in Lima 2027. Fans can follow updates on the team’s progress through official channels and news releases from the Peruvian Judo Federation.
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