Manizales Sports News: Cycling, Football, Judo & More – April 19, 2024
Manizales, Caldas, is a hub of athletic activity, with events ranging from extreme mountain biking to youth soccer championships, alongside preparations for international competition and local support initiatives. This report details recent developments and upcoming events in the region’s sporting landscape.
Extreme Cycling and Youth Soccer Take Center Stage
On April 19th, the Reto Bemat 2026, an extreme mountain biking competition, will challenge 500 cyclists. The event’s focal point will be Salamina, utilizing both the town itself and the surrounding areas for its course. Simultaneously, preparations are underway for the semifinal round of the National Under-13 Masculine Football Championship. Caldas has qualified for this stage and will compete against teams from Bogotá, Tolima, Santander, Atlántico, and Antioquia between the 23rd and 29th of the next month, vying for a spot in the final.
Local Athletes Prepare for International Competition
Caldas judokas recently participated in the I National Kata (figures) Camp in Pereira. Representing Caldas were Juan Manuel Valencia Díaz and Carlos Eduardo Gálvez Gálvez, Sebastián Quintero Gil and Juan José Moncada Tapias, and Sara Arango López and Stefanya Marín Vergara, each competing in specific kata disciplines. Elsewhere, billard player Huberney Cataño achieved a top-16 finish at the International Billiard tournament held during the Barranquilla Carnival, falling to Alejandro Pizza. Cataño is now preparing to represent Caldas at the World Team Championship in Viersen, Germany, alongside Pedro González.
Municipal Support for Athletes
The Manizales municipal government is finalizing its selection process for athletes and coaches who will receive monthly support through the Atletas y Entrenadores program. According to Diego Espinosa, Secretary of Sport, 70 competitors and 10 coaches will be chosen. The selection process is currently underway.
International and Domestic Matches on the Horizon
European football fans in Manizales can follow the Europa League matches on ESPN and Disney+ on Thursday, with several games scheduled throughout the day. Lanús of Argentina and Flamengo of Brazil will face off in the first leg of the Recopa Sudamericana tonight at 7:30 p.m. Lanús enters the match following a mixed start to the Torneo Apertura, while Flamengo has shown improvement after a challenging start to the Brasileirao.
Esgrima Success and Recrevia Operator Selection
Caldas fencers achieved success at the Copa Nacional Interligas in Bogotá, with the men’s team winning in the épée category. Kevin Restrepo secured a silver medal in épée, and Celeste Parra earned a bronze in sabre. Finally, the operator for the Manizales recrevia (recreational area) will be announced today, with five companies – Corporación Para el Desarrollo Social y la Calidad de Vida, Ingeplan SAS, Conexión, Fundación Clamor Tricolor, and Soa Projects – competing for the $611 million contract.
Women’s Football League Gains Momentum
Registration is currently open for clubs and teams interested in participating in the Copa LA PATRIA Women’s Football tournament. Organizers aim to include 10 teams in the competition, with interested parties encouraged to register at 3205639987. Several teams, including Once Caldas, Atlético Dosquebradas, Jega FC Pereira, Wikam, and Valiente FC, have already confirmed their participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Reto Bemat?
The Reto Bemat is an extreme mountain biking competition taking place on April 19th in Salamina, with 500 cyclists participating.
Which teams will Caldas face in the Under-13 Football Championship semifinal?
Caldas will compete against teams from Bogotá, Tolima, Santander, Atlántico, and Antioquia in the semifinal round.
How many athletes and coaches will receive support from the Manizales municipal program?
70 competitors and 10 coaches will be selected to receive monthly support from the Atletas y Entrenadores program.
As Manizales continues to foster a vibrant sporting community, what role do you believe local government support plays in the success of its athletes?