Cuba reminds Ronaldo Veitia at PanAm Open Varadero

Amidst the picturesque backdrop of Varadero, Cuba, the second Pan American Judo Carnival kicked off the 2024 calendar for the Panamerican Judo Confederation in style. This lively event featured cadet and junior Pan-American cups, a Pan-American open offering points for Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualification, and the Ronaldo Veitia Cup, honoring the legendary Cuban coach.

A standout competitor at the carnival was 22-year-old Katarzyna Sobierajska from Poland, who triumphed in the -70 kg category at the Varadero Pan American Open, clinching her first medal in a continental open event. Despite overcoming obstacles like surgery the previous year, Sobierajska and her coach, Damian Lisiewicz, journeyed over 8,500 kilometers in pursuit of this competition opportunity. Sobierajska expressed her delight at the victory, emphasizing her satisfaction and the significance of the event in her recovery journey.

Reflecting on her experience, Sobierajska commended the venue, organization, and ambiance of Varadero, describing it as a beautiful location with excellent tournament arrangements. She expressed her joy at meeting her expectations by winning the gold medal and eagerly anticipated returning for future editions.

The familial atmosphere was another highlight of the event, with parents filling the stands of the Meliá Internacional Hotel to support their young athletes. For Héctor Sandoval and Karina Ramírez from Mexico, witnessing their daughter Renata Sandoval compete in the junior Pan American cup was a source of immense pride and fulfillment. They emphasized the importance of parental support in nurturing judo talent in the region and commended the Cuban hospitality and Varadero's picturesque setting.

The carnival left a lasting impression, characterized by passion, the warmth of Cuban fans, and the remarkable performances of the athletes. It solidified Varadero's status as a premier destination for international sports events, showcasing Cuba's hospitality and love for judo.

Looking ahead, the Pan American Judo Tour moves to Rio de Janeiro for the 2024 Pan American and Oceania Championship, promising another exciting chapter in the region's judo journey.