Panamanians win multiple gold medals at international karate event in Brazil

Panama's karate athletes have once again raised the nation's flag high on the international stage, achieving a historic performance at the 7th Karate-Do International JKS 2026 held in Vitoria, Brazil. The delegation from Organización JKS Panamá delivered an outstanding showing, securing numerous medals and underscoring the rising prowess of Panamanian martial arts.

Young Eric Augusto Martínez emerged as a central figure, clinching the international championship title by winning the gold medal in the 84-kilogram Kumite category. His victory, representing the Rufina Alfaro district of San Miguelito, marks a significant achievement for the athlete and the country.

Beyond Martínez's triumph, the Panamanian contingent demonstrated exceptional technical skill across various age and weight divisions. Athletes earned multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals in both Kata and Kumite disciplines. Notable successes include Yerick Mendoza and Luciana Morales, who each secured double gold medals in their respective age groups (6-7 years and 8-9 years), and Jovel Mendoza, who won gold in the Master's 50-55 years Kumite category.

Other medalists included Gustavo Laso (bronze in Kata, silver in Kumite), Virgilio Parra (gold in Kata), Lucas Fernández (double bronze), Luis Caballero (silver in Kumite), Eric Martínez (gold in U-21 Kumite), Juan Angulo (bronze in Adult -67kg Kumite). This impressive haul of victories reaffirms the continuous development of national karate at all levels, from children's categories to U-21, adult, and master divisions.

The triumphant delegation is expected to return to Panama on Wednesday, August 26th, with an estimated arrival at 6:00 a.m., where they anticipate a warm welcome from family and the sporting community.