The flame that unites the entire country continues to ignite excitement. The torch of the South American Youth Games 2026 keeps moving across Panama and, after passing through Chiriquí, Bocas del Toro, and the Ngäbe Buglé Comarca, arrived today in the province of Veraguas, where it was welcomed with enthusiasm and pride by our athletes.
In Santiago de Veraguas, the provincial capital, an emotional day unfolded with the cauldron relay, where dozens of local athletes took part, representing different disciplines. The honor of lighting the flame fell to Veraguan triathlete Leydis Vega, who brought to life the fire that symbolizes the hope of an entire country ahead of this national event.
Veraguas, a province with more than 200,000 inhabitants and recognized as the only one in Panama with coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, turned out in full force to accompany the torch’s journey. Among the standout participants was Audcinth Valdés, a basketball figure who led one of the relay segments.
The presence of athletes was broad and diverse: Anselmo Ealy in shot put, the Jiménez sisters in handball, Alejandra Trejos in the 100 meters, Gabriel Morales in the 400 meters, and Diego Pineda in middle-distance events. All of them are focused on representing Panama at the highest level and fighting for gold at the South American Youth Games 2026.
The event was also attended by the mayor of Santiago, Eric Jaén, as well as Sasha Fábrega, former national team player and a key figure in women’s football, who was part of the historic squad that competed in the 2023 World Cup, sharing her experience and inspiring the new generation.
Thus, the torch continues its journey, calling on everyone to embrace this national event, the South American Youth Games 2026. In every province, the flame not only lights the path but also ignites the spirit of a generation ready to compete at the highest level and proudly represent Panama.
