This is a regional event where the best karateka from Central America will compete, serving as a qualifier for other important tournaments and highlighting the participation of athletes from Mexico and other nations.
The first tournament on the schedule is the XXI Central American Karate Championship, to be held in Managua, Nicaragua, from March 1 to 8. This championship will also serve as a qualifier for other major events.
"My goal is clear: to keep growing as an athlete, to put Panama's name high, and to demonstrate that with discipline, passion, and perseverance, great goals can be achieved," stated the athlete.
However, participation in these competitions will depend on the financial support he can obtain, as he only needs shin guards, gloves, a belt, and the karategi (uniform) for equipment.
Beginnings
Josué Estrada's start in karate came at the age of 8, when a friend invited him to train at a dojo in Anclas Mall, in La Chorrera.
"At first, it was a pastime, but little by little I moved up in belt ranks and discovered my true passion for this sport," recounted Josué.
He began his competitive stage at 11, participating in local tournaments, and at 13, he achieved his first black belt promotion.
His desire to improve led him to travel daily for three years to Coronado, where he trained at a specialized dojo in kumite (karate combat).
"This was a demanding period: studying at school, taking the bus, training until 10 PM, and getting home around 11, only to wake up early for school. It was a tough process, but full of learning and discipline," he indicated.
Josué's efforts paid off and yielded results, as he became the national runner-up in Kumite in his category and secured third place nationally.
"These achievements have shown me that constant dedication opens doors and that I still have a long way to go," pointed out the athlete of this martial art.
He is one of the young athletes on an upward trajectory in his sport.
