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Port-au-Prince, November 5, 2024 – Haitian taekwondo athlete Ava Lee, known for her powerful presence and disciplined mastery, has become a symbol of national pride as she continues to achieve impressive feats in the sport. Recently, she reached the top of the Pan-American U22 rankings in the +67 kg division, marking her as the leading competitor across the Americas in her category. This achievement follows a string of victories that have captivated both her home country and the international taekwondo community.
Earlier this year, on July 27, Lee clinched a gold medal at the U21 Pan American Championship in Querétaro, Mexico. Her performance there was memorable, punctuated by her forceful “kihap” – the spirited shout taekwondo practitioners use to focus energy and signal determination. Her victory in Querétaro not only brought her recognition but also demonstrated her skill, discipline, and tenacity in a competition that featured top talents from across the region.
Lee’s journey in 2024 has been marked by remarkable achievements. She secured a silver medal at the Senior Pan American Championship in Brazil in May and won gold at the U.S. National Amateur Championship on July 4. These back-to-back victories have positioned her as a top athlete in her category and highlighted her unwavering dedication to the sport.
Reflecting on her latest success, Lee expressed pride in her current ranking, yet she maintains a forward-looking focus. “This ranking is a big accomplishment for me, but the main objective is to keep securing medals,” she remarked, emphasizing her desire to continue progressing in her sport.
A Model for Haitian Youth and a Source of National Pride
Ava Lee’s achievements have resonated strongly in Haiti, where her success has become a source of inspiration for young athletes. The Haitian Taekwondo Federation praised her dedication and the discipline she brings to every competition, acknowledging her as a model of excellence. Yet, despite her accomplishments, the federation noted the limited state support available to Lee and other Haitian athletes, underscoring the reliance on personal commitment and community backing in the face of funding challenges.
Lee’s success showcases the potential of Haitian athletes on the global stage, and she has become an ambassador for Haitian taekwondo, embodying the resilience and ambition of the nation’s youth. Her goals now extend beyond Pan-American events, with her sights set on the highest levels of competition, including a potential run for the Olympic Games.
Her accomplishments and aspirations reflect a path paved by hard work and a passion for the sport, demonstrating that with dedication and resilience, Haitian athletes can excel on the world stage. For Lee, each victory is not only a personal triumph but also a step toward a future where Haitian athletes receive broader recognition and support in their quest for excellence.
