the Aruba Taekwondo Association (ARTBO) wrote a new chapter in the history of our national sport with the celebration of its first National Championship 2026. The event, which took place at the Compleho Deportivo Frans Figaroa, was a day where the discipline and talent of our athletes shone brighter than ever, giving life to a journey marked by unity and sporting excellence.
The championship counted on the active participation of six Taekwondo schools from Aruba: San Nicolas Taekwondo Center, Caribbean Taekwondo Institute, Chaco Taekwondo Academy, Tiger Taekwondo Academy, Impact Taekwondo, and Estrella Taekwondo & Martial Arts Foundation. The competitions in Poomsae and Kyorugi were a vivid demonstration of the high level and dedication of each coach and their respective schools.
ARTBO cordially congratulates all the athletes who gave their maximum effort on the mat. Your determination and spirit of fair play are what elevate the sport of Taekwondo in Aruba.
OUTSTANDING ATHLETES:
Poomsae – Forms:
Best Cadet: Rebecca Puente (Chaco Taekwondo)
Best Junior: Allison Pava Escobar (Estrella Taekwondo)
Best Senior: Jose Hernandez (Caribbean Taekwondo)
Best Team/Pair: Rachelle Rodriguez & Ayzic Rodriguez (Impact Taekwondo)
Kyorugi – Sparring (Male):
Best Youth (Infantil): Mauricio Gomez (Estrella Taekwondo)
Best Cadet: Xamier Lake (San Nicolas Taekwondo)
Best Junior: Antonio Estillore (Estrella Taekwondo)
Best Senior: Richard Cambar (Impact Taekwondo)
Kyorugi – Sparring (Female):
Best Youth (Infantil): Engelly Bislip (Tiger Taekwondo)
Best Cadet: Franyelis Reynoso (Tiger Taekwondo)
Best Junior: Emmily Saldarriaga (Estrella Taekwondo)
Best Team & Best Crowd: Estrella Taekwondo & Martial Arts Foundation
An event of this caliber requires a solid team behind the scenes, and ARTBO expresses its deep gratitude to:
Volunteers and the ARTBO Board: For their tireless effort in the preparation and management of the event.
The Referee Corps: For their professionalism, impartiality, and commitment to the rules.
Master of Ceremonies, Lysander “Manolo” Besselink: For guiding the event with energy and dynamism.
Glennon Eights Soundsystems: For the excellent sound quality throughout the entire day.
Dr. Vladimir Suarez: For his presence and medical supervision, ensuring safety for all athletes.
Parents, Fans, and the “Best Crowd”: Who filled the stands with emotion and encouraged the athletes at all times.
We extend our thanks to all our partners and stakeholders for their constant support, as well as to the photographers and members of the press present who immortalized these grand moments.
The National Championship 2026 confirmed that when we work together as a sports family, the results are extraordinary. We continue with more strength and enthusiasm, preparing from now on for the next achievements that will continue to take Aruban Taekwondo to a higher level.
