Daniel Balli Claims Two Taekwondo Golds For Jamaica In Colombia

MIAMI, Florida: Jamaican taekwondo representative Daniel Balli added two more titles to his record last weekend, taking double gold at the Masters Cup in Colombia while competing for Jamaica.

The 15-year-old Team Jamaica athlete faced leading regional opponents and finished first in both the junior men's -59kg class and the senior men's -58kg category. His results underlined the composure, technical ability and work ethic he has shown at a young age.

The Colombia outing builds on a busy 2026 season for Balli. He has already represented Jamaica at the World Taekwondo Junior Championships in Uzbekistan, secured bronze at the Canada Open G2, and reached the podium at several other international events.

Balli attends Pembroke Pines Charter High School in Florida and trains with Champion Martial Arts. He started taekwondo when he was three-and-a-half years old, earned his First Dan Black Belt at 11, and now holds a Second Degree Black Belt. He is regarded as one of Jamaica's rising prospects in the sport.

"This achievement is the result of years of hard work, sacrifice, and the support of coaches, family, sponsors, and the Jamaican community," said Balli. "I am honoured to represent Jamaica every time I step onto the mat."

Balli is preparing for more high-level contests, with events in Korea and Peru ahead, as he works toward his long-term ambition of competing at the sport's highest levels.

His latest showing points to continued progress in Jamaica's taekwondo programme and offers encouragement to young athletes at home and across the diaspora.