El Centro’s Anael Alejo set to compete at 2026 USA Boxing Junior Olympics

The 12-year-old Amateur Boxer eyes gold in her return to the Junior Olympics

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA) — Anael Alejo is preparing for another shot at the top of the podium as she heads to the 2026 USA Boxing Junior Olympics in Wichita, Kansas.

After winning a silver medal at the 2024 Junior Olympics, the 12-year-old Amateur Boxer returns with greater experience and a renewed goal of bringing home gold.

Alejo has spent months training alongside her father and head coach, Angel Alejo, who has helped guide her development as she prepares for the national tournament. The pair believe early morning workouts, including 6 a.m. training sessions and practices on Navy bases, have elevated her game ahead of this year's competition.

With increased intensity and confidence, Alejo will represent the Imperial Valley on the national stage as she looks to improve on her runner-up finish from two years ago.

While preparations for the tournament have gone well, the Alejo family is seeking community support to help offset travel expenses for the trip to Wichita.

If you would like to donate, click this link here.