RCA Hosts Copa Don Elias Tournament for 25th Consecutive Year

More than 50 young athletes gathered in Aruba for the 2026 Aruba Aquatics Federation International Development Camp, a program focused on building skills, promoting well-being, and investing in the future of the island's aquatic sports talent. The camp brought together participants from three disciplines: Swimming, Open Water Swimming, and Artistic Swimming. The program reflects a broader commitment by the Aruba Aquatics Federation to develop competitive athletes at the junior level through structured, international-standard training. Development camps of this nature serve as a key pipeline for identifying and nurturing athletes who may eventually represent Aruba in regional and international competitions. The initiative underscores growing institutional investment in youth sports infrastructure on the island.

The second edition of the Copa Papaya recreational softball tournament officially got underway Thursday night in Aruba, drawing 32 commercial teams competing for the championship title. The tournament is set to run for three consecutive days, with teams battling through the bracket in pursuit of the top prize. Copa Papaya is a commercial league format, meaning the competing teams are affiliated with local businesses and organizations. The multi-day structure suggests a high-intensity schedule of games played across the tournament window. The event reflects Aruba's active recreational sports culture and community engagement through organized athletic competition. With 32 teams in the field, the tournament represents a significant local sporting event bringing together a wide cross-section of the island's business community.

Aruba is preparing for a landmark celebration as the Department of Sports (IDEFRE) marks its 50th anniversary with a major island-wide event called Aruba Activo. The event, described as historic, will take place around the island and represents the first edition of what is expected to become a recurring celebration. IDEFRE is organizing the large-scale event to commemorate half a century of promoting sports and physical activity on the island. Organizers have confirmed that all preparations are complete ahead of the inaugural edition. The event is designed to engage the broader community in active participation across various locations throughout Aruba. The milestone anniversary adds special significance to the launch, positioning Aruba Activo as both a celebratory and community-building occasion.