Ecuador University Sports Games 2026: ESPOCH Competes, UPS Wins Athletics

The IV Juegos Deportivos Nacionales Universitarios e Institutos de Educación Superior 2026 were held in Ecuador from 23 July to 2 August, organized by the Ministry of Education, Sport and Culture in Guayaquil. More than 2,600 athletes, coaches and delegates from 34 higher‑education institutions took part in a range of competitions.

The Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo (ESPOCH) participated with its student teams across several sports, emphasizing the university’s commitment to holistic education, health, and leadership development.

Universidad Politécnica Salesiana (UPS) dominated the athletics program, securing 12 gold medals, five silver and one bronze. Star athlete Pamela Barreto won six gold medals, and the university also triumphed in the 4 × 100 m, mixed 4 × 100 m, and 4 × 400 m relays, highlighting its depth of talent and training.