Grand Master Marilu de Veer Honored for Taekwondo Dedication in Aruba

On September 16, 2026, Chaco Taekwondo Academy (CTA) in Aruba hosted a special ceremony to honor Grand Master Len Johnson, a legendary figure in Jidokwan Taekwondo. The event brought together martial arts practitioners and community members in a gathering described as filled with great honor and emotion. Grand Master Len Johnson is recognized as an icon within the martial arts world, particularly in the Jidokwan style of Taekwondo. The ceremony at CTA served as a tribute to his lifetime of contributions to the discipline and his influence on the sport. The event highlights the growing martial arts community in Aruba and the island's connection to internationally respected figures in the field.

St. Maarten's community is being called upon to rally behind the island's basketball representatives, known as the 37ers, as they prepare to compete in an upcoming tournament in Aruba. The call to action reflects the importance of local sports representation and community pride in the region. The 37ers are set to travel to Aruba, making this an inter-island competitive event that carries significance for St. Maarten's athletic identity. Public support — whether through attendance, social media encouragement, or other means — is being encouraged ahead of the team's departure. Such tournaments serve as key opportunities for Caribbean islands to showcase local talent on a regional stage. The appeal underscores the broader role that sports play in fostering unity and community spirit across St. Maarten.

Hugo Themen, a representative of the Aruba Amateur Weightlifting Association, has been selected as an International Technical Official for the 2026 South American Games in Santa Fe, Argentina. The invitation was extended by the organizing committee of the Santa Fe 2026 South American Games directly to the Aruba Amateur Weightlifting Association. In this role, Themen will serve as a technical official overseeing the weightlifting competition at the games. The appointment marks a significant recognition of Aruban expertise at a major regional multi-sport event. This honor highlights the growing international standing of Aruba's weightlifting community on the South American sporting stage. It is a notable achievement for a small island nation to have one of its officials selected to oversee competition at this level of regional athletics.