Munera Second Time National Karate Champion

Marco T. Munera achieved remarkable success at the 2026 AAU National Karate Championship, held July 1-4 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Marco competed in forms (Katas), forms with weapons (Kobudo) using short swords called sais, and sparring (Kumite). At just 15 years old and 6’-5” tall, he competed in sparring in the individual heavyweight category for ages 15-17, earning the National Karate Champion title for the second time with a gold medal. Marco first claimed two gold medals and his initial National titles in sparring and forms in 2024.

This year, Marco also secured a second gold medal in the same age and weight category as part of a three-athlete team in the event called Ultimate Rotation. In this event, three team members take turns sparring against three athletes from another team. Six teams competed for gold, silver, and bronze, with Marco’s team triumphing to win the gold.

Two weeks before the National Championship, Marco and his father, Juan Mùnera, traveled to Montana for an intensive seven-day karate camp with their instructor, Sensei Nick Lemke. The camp was rigorous, featuring six hours of martial arts training daily and hikes up the mountain to a lake at 9,000 feet elevation.

Marco’s father, Juan Mùnera, also achieved two bronze medals in forms (Katas) and forms with weapons (Kobudo) using a single Nunchaku.

“I am very fortunate to be able to compete in a sports national championship along with my father. That is very special for me,” said Marco.

The Mùnera family has established a strong record of national achievements. Marisa Mùnera, Marco’s 11 year old sister, was also awarded several accolades this past June during the National Dance Competition in Savannah, Georgia.

Training and preparations for next year’s National Championships Competitions are already underway for this dedicated family of athletes.