At just 14 years old, Sergio Gamboa has established himself as one of the rising stars in Spanish children's judo. This athlete from Albox, with nearly four years of training, faces one of the most significant challenges of his career: the final of the Spanish Championship, which will take place in Mallorca next week. He will compete as part of the Murcian team, aiming for a spot on the national podium.

Gamboa's progress has been remarkable over the past year. Although he did not achieve national results last season, 2026 has marked a turning point in his athletic journey. He has earned bronze medals in the Spanish Supercup in Madrid and Extremadura, a fifth-place finish in Alicante, and the regional champion title in Murcia. These achievements have placed him among the best in the country in his category, ranking fifth nationally in children's judo.

His entry into judo was unconventional, inspired by the series Cobra Kai. Initially interested in karate, the lack of options in his area led him to try judo. What began as a game quickly transformed into a passion and a daily discipline. Currently, he trains three times a week with his club and travels to Murcia on Saturdays to train with the regional team, supplementing his preparation with gym sessions.

Despite the demanding sports schedule, Sergio maintains good academic performance, demonstrating remarkable maturity in his organization. His capacity for self-criticism is a fundamental pillar in his development, acknowledging his mistakes to improve in each combat. This mindset will be crucial in the upcoming national championship, where he feels prepared to reach the podium.

The support of his coach, Fernando Parra, and his family has been essential to his growth. Sergio Gamboa not only represents the present of judo in Albox but also a promising future, with discipline, talent, and a solid competitive mindset. Mallorca will be the stage where this young judoka will put everything he has learned to the test, with the hope of returning with a medal.