Panama City, April 6, 2026.
The Presidency of the Republic opened its doors this Monday to welcome Antón, the official mascot, along with a group of young athletes from the Panamanian delegation, in the lead-up to the IV South American Youth Games Panama 2026.
The event, held at the main entrance Patio Andaluz of the Presidential Palace (Palacio de las Garzas), was led by the First Lady of the Republic, Maricel Cohen de Mulino, who welcomed the athletes in a warm atmosphere that reflects the spirit with which the country is preparing to compete at another level.
During the visit, the athletes shared a special moment with Antón and toured emblematic areas of the Presidential Palace, such as the Yellow Hall and the Tamarind Hall, gaining insight into part of the country’s institutional history.
The delegation present included representatives from various disciplines:
• Swimming: Raúl Antadilla (flag bearer), Zuriel Leguísamo
• Gymnastics: Aylin Goom
• Golf: Daniel Hylton, Pablo Brenes
• Chess: André Méndez
• Fencing: Itza Castillo
• Triathlon: Raquel Sucre, Abdiel Best
• Athletics: Franklin Rodríguez, Geraldine Vásquez
• Taekwondo: Sebastián Lasso, Amira Grira Vargas
• Archery: Nicolás Sucre, Daniela Chamorro
• Surfing: Víctor Camarena, Laura Bal
• Women’s Flag Football: Valentina Rodríguez
This meeting symbolizes institutional support for a new generation of athletes who will proudly represent Panama in the regional competition.
With the backing of the country and the energy of its people, Team Panama continues its preparation with the goal of leaving its mark at the South American Youth Games Panama 2026.
