Belizeans participate actively in Verano Xul-Ha 2026 sporting event in Mexico

By Abigail Quiroz: For the second year in a row, I had the honor of representing Belize at Verano Xul-Ha, one of the biggest sporting and cultural events held in early August in Mexico. After competing for the first time last year as the only Belizean, I returned this year with the same team, BAKAB BALAM, but this time I proudly brought along my Belizean friends so they could participate and experience this incredible event with me.

This year’s Verano Xul-Ha was much bigger than last year’s. There were more teams, more participants, and even more excitement throughout the competition.

Just like last year, the event consisted of several activities that tested teamwork, strength, skill, and creativity. Teams competed in volleyball, football (soccer), kayaking, tug-of-war, relay races, a knowledge competition, and team presentations, making it much more than just a sporting event.

Although we didn’t place where we had hoped, we gave it our all and proudly carried the Belizean flag throughout the competition. The greatest achievement wasn’t a medal—it was bringing together two countries through sports, friendship, and teamwork. It was an unforgettable experience to have Belize represented by more than one athlete this year.

I would like to sincerely thank Team BAKAB BALAM and every one of the 30 players who welcomed us and competed together:

Victor Cano, Gabriela Guadalupe Fuentes, Sayle Ortega, Victor Escandón, Efren Mitaya, Alan Yosen Herrera, Laura Santos, Guadalupe Perez, Audrey Nahil Perez (Kentoky), Johana, Maria Dolores, Alexandra Estefania, Joel Abraham, Whitney Santos (Belize), Elvis García (Belize), Abigail Quiroz (Belize), Britney Bijil (Belize), Cristhian Osiris, Ethan Peraza, Juan Carlos Gabourel, Dianela Cu, America Sarmiento, Adan de Jesus, Bryan Mosqueda, Felix Uscanga, Yeimi Anzures, Axel Sosa, Alira Yaraseli, Camila Arreguín, and Pablo Suarez.

Thank you, Team BAKAB BALAM, for another amazing experience. It was an honor to represent alongside all of you once again.

Next year, I hope to take this one step further by forming a full Belizean team to compete at Verano Xul-Ha. My goal is to continue strengthening the friendship between Belize and Mexico while encouraging more Belizeans to be part of one of Mexico’s biggest and most exciting annual events.

Next year I’m hoping to form a fully Belizean team to participate in the competitions.

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