Twelve-Medal Performance by U.S. Veterans in Cancun

(Colorado Springs, Colo.) – From September 12–14, 2025, a team of accomplished U.S. Veteran Judo athletes proudly represented the United States at the Pan American Kata and Veterans Championship held in Cancún, Mexico. Competing against seasoned judoka from across the Americas, Team USA demonstrated skill, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the event, bringing home an impressive haul of medals.

Among the standout performances, several athletes achieved gold medals in their respective divisions: Gustavo Sanchez (M8/-73kg), Felix Carrera (M9/-73kg), Marcus Surratt (M4/-100kg), Doug Newcomer (M7/-66kg), Josh White (M2M3/-90kg), Christopher Hohmann (M5/-100kg), Lori Latimer (F3/-63kg), and William Perron (M7/+100kg). Silver was earned by Hector Negron (M4/+100kg), while bronze medals went to Aaron Villarreal (M4/-81kg), Donald Sanders (M1M2/+100kg), and Jonathan Michaud (M2M3/-90kg).

Veteran athletes also shared their reflections on the significance of the event. Christopher Hohmann of Fort Worth Judo remarked, “While the tournament may have been limited in participants, the competition intensity was not. All of the matches were very competitive and intensely contested. The feeling of standing on top of the podium with the National Anthem playing was an experience I've never had in the past as a Judoka.” Hector Negron added, “This was a great experience. The tournament organizers did a phenomenal job running the tournament and creating a fun, safe, and competitive environment for Veteran Judo players from the American continent. It is always an honor to represent the USA, and the whole team showed that.”

Team USA’s success in Cancún was strengthened by the invaluable support of USA Judo leadership. CEO Corinne Shigemoto and Veterans Task Force member Hector Negron played key roles in championing the Veteran program and empowering athletes to compete at the highest level. Special thanks also go to USA Judo’s Veterans Task Force Chair, Brad Daniels, for his continued dedication to advancing the Veterans Judo community nationwide. Additionally, Dr. Ray Marquez of Veterans Judo USA provided essential support by coordinating team apparel and assisting participants with administrative and registration requirements. The combined efforts of these individuals served as a powerful reminder of the strong community and commitment that stand behind every U.S. judoka on the international stage.