Mexico's Top Olympic Figure Skater Is Competing 20 Minutes From Puerto Morelos

Ice Skating Comes to the Caribbean: A Championship Worth the Drive

A tropical beach town and an ice skating championship might not seem like a natural match. But that is exactly what is happening right now, just up the road from Puerto Morelos.

Cancun is hosting the 39th National Ice Skating Championship from May 18 to 24, and it is a first for the Caribbean coast.

What Is Happening and Where

The competition is being held at Happy Arena, located inside Plaza Outlet on the Cancun-Puerto Morelos highway, near the Cancun airport.

That puts it just a short drive north from Puerto Morelos, making it one of the most accessible national sporting events this community has ever had at its doorstep.

Around 400 skaters from across Mexico are competing. Athletes are coming from Estado de Mexico, Mexico City, Puebla, Queretaro, Guanajuato, Nuevo Leon, Jalisco, Tabasco, Yucatan, San Luis Potosi, and right here in Quintana Roo.

The Star of the Show

The biggest name on the ice is Donovan Carrillo, Mexico's top figure skater and a two-time Olympian.

Carrillo has been the face of Mexican figure skating for years, competing on the world stage and inspiring a new generation of skaters across the country. Seeing him compete in our own backyard is a rare opportunity.

Why This Matters for the Region

Organizers say the event will bring athletes, coaches, and families from states all over Mexico to the Cancun area. That means hotel rooms, restaurant tables, and tourist pesos flowing through the local economy, including Puerto Morelos.

It also signals something bigger. Cancun is actively positioning itself as a host city for national and international sporting events. For those of us living along this stretch of the Riviera Maya, that kind of recognition raises the profile of the entire region.

Free Admission, Daily Events

Here is the part that should get everyone off the couch. Admission to Happy Arena during the championship is completely free. Competition runs daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. through May 24.

For families in Puerto Morelos, this is an easy day trip. The drive up the highway takes about 20 minutes, parking at Plaza Outlet is simple, and there is no ticket to buy.

It is not every day that a national championship lands practically in your neighborhood. This one is worth the drive.