The red-and-black judo team shone once again on the international stage. Maria Clara Avelino won the gold medal at the Junior Pan American Cup in Panama City, taking an important step toward qualifying for the Junior Pan American Games, which will take place at the end of the year.

With a solid performance, Maria Clara won every fight she competed in and reached the top spot on the podium. The tournament, one of the most important on the continental youth championship calendar, counts crucial points in the Panamerican qualifying rankings.

After the victory, the red-black athlete celebrated the result and reinforced her confidence in the work that has been done:

"This competition was very important because I'm fighting for a spot at the Junior Pan American Games, so I was able to add important points to the Pan American ranking to try to qualify for the games at the end of the year and I had good fights, tough fights and I know I'm on the right path."

Maria Clara remains focused on the season's upcoming challenges, aiming to represent Brazil and Flamengo in another major international competition.