Veterans Judo Athletes represent USA at the 2025 Pan-American Kata and Veterans Championships
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).
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.