On November 24, the city of Querétaro, Mexico, will dress up to receive the annual edition of the Pan American Taekwondo Union (PATU) Gala Dinner. This event, which brings together the most influential personalities of Taekwondo in the region, will be the stage to celebrate the exceptional achievements of federations, athletes, referees and coaches in different categories, highlighting the spirit and excellence of this sport in the continent.
Sports Achievement and Commitment in Taekwondo Awards
Among the most anticipated awards of the evening were those for Best Federation of the Continental Union, an award that last year went to the Brazilian Taekwondo Confederation for its outstanding organization and achievements. This year, Taekwondo fans are eagerly awaiting the winning federation, the one that represents the commitment to take the sport to a higher level in their communities.
In the category of Best Female and Male Referee, the event will celebrate professionalism and impartiality in refereeing, essential elements for the fair and competitive development of the sport. Last year's winners were Araceli Ornelas of Mexico and Eric Wah of Canada. Who will be the referees recognized this year for their excellent performance?
Recognizing Athletes' Talent and Coaches' Leadership
The Best Coach of the Year award is another outstanding recognition, honoring coaches who, with leadership and dedication, inspire their athletes to achieve their goals. In the previous edition, Yvonne de la Cruz of Peru and Clayton Dos Santos of Brazil were the winners. This year, 2024, the award will be given to those who have demonstrated exceptional vision and commitment to talent development.
Likewise, athletes who excel in the combat and Poomsae modalities will receive the Kyorugi Athlete of the Year and Poomsae Athlete of the Year awards, respectively. In 2023, CJ Nickolas of the United States and Daniela Souza of Mexico took the award in Kyorugi, while Alejandra Higueros of Guatemala and William Arroyo of Mexico were recognized in Poomsae. The excitement grows to know the new winners of these awards that highlight the skill, technique and discipline of the best exponents of Pan American Taekwondo.
Address by PATU President, Juan Manuel Lopez
The President of the Pan American Taekwondo Union, Juan Manuel Lopez, expressed the importance of this gala evening as an opportunity to unite and celebrate the entire Taekwondo community in the continent:
“The PATU Gala Dinner is much more than an awards event; it is a celebration of the Pan American Taekwondo family, where we honor those who have given their best for the sport and have contributed to its growth and excellence in our region. This year, in Querétaro, we are excited to share an unforgettable night, where each award represents the effort and commitment of all our members.”
The PATU 2024 Gala Dinner promises to be a night of inspiration and recognition to those who, with effort and dedication, drive Taekwondo in the Americas.
