Panama’s judo team delivered a strong performance at the 2026 Copa Centroamericana y del Caribe, securing five medals that significantly bolster their qualification prospects for the upcoming Centroamerican and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo.
The Panamanian squad showcased its talent on home soil, earning four gold medals and one silver medal at the Copa Centroamericana y del Caribe. This impressive showing underscores the nation’s growing strength in the sport and positions them as a serious contender in the region as they prepare for the multi-sport event scheduled for July 24 to August 8 in the Dominican Republic.
Golden Performances Lead the Way
Némesis Candelo spearheaded the medal charge, claiming gold in the -48 kg category. Her dominant performance set the tone for the entire team. Kristine Jiménez followed suit, securing gold in the -57 kg division. Ronal González added another gold medal to Panama’s tally in the -73 kg weight class, while Alexis Harrison completed the golden quartet with a victory in the -81 kg category.
Bernabé Vergara contributed to the team’s success with a silver medal in the -60 kg division, demonstrating his competitive form and solidifying his position as a key athlete for Panama. These results aren’t just about the medals themselves; they represent crucial points earned towards qualification for the Santo Domingo Games.
A Key Tournament for Santo Domingo 2026
The Copa Centroamericana y del Caribe served as a vital qualifying event for the XXV Centroamerican and Caribbean Games, making each medal earned all the more valuable. The Panamanian team’s performance demonstrates a positive trajectory as they navigate the qualification cycle. Competing at home, with the added pressure and expectations of a local crowd and still achieving success, speaks volumes about the team’s resilience, and maturity.
The success in Panama builds momentum as the judo program looks ahead. The team is demonstrating a capacity to perform under pressure, a critical attribute as they approach the larger regional competition. For many athletes, these early tournaments are crucial for building confidence and refining techniques before the stakes are even higher.
What’s Next for Panamanian Judo
Panama’s strong showing at the Copa Centroamericana y del Caribe sends a clear message to regional rivals: they are a force to be reckoned with. The team will continue its qualification journey with the Copa Centroamericana in Guatemala this Saturday, March 28, followed by the Pan American Senior Championships in Panama on April 18. These upcoming tournaments will provide further opportunities to accumulate points and refine their strategies.
The coaching staff and athletes are focused on maintaining consistency and arriving in optimal condition for Santo Domingo 2026. While the current results are encouraging, there’s still work to be done to fine-tune technical details and gain further international experience. The foundation is laid, the talent is evident, and the team is determined to continue its upward trajectory.
The Panamanian judo team has clearly established itself as a serious contender in the region. With five medals secured on home turf, they are well-positioned to make a significant impact at the Centroamerican and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo. The journey continues, and the team is focused on competing, growing, and striving for greatness.
Archysport will continue to follow the progress of the Panamanian judo team as they prepare for the upcoming tournaments and the Centroamerican and Caribbean Games.
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