Cuban sports legend Alberto Juantorena was honored during the centennial gala of the Central American and Caribbean Sports Games, held in the Dominican Republic. As part of the activities of the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games, it was reported this Friday in Santo Domingo.
Dominican President Luis Abinader presented Juantorena, a two-time Olympic champion in the 400 and 800 meters. With the organization’s Centennial Athlete award.
The award was received on his behalf by the president of the Cuban Olympic Committee, Roberto León Richards.
The ceremony also recognized other individuals and institutions that have contributed to the development of regional sports over the last century. Including Cubans Javier Sotomayor, considered the best high jumper in history. María Caridad Colón, a member of the International Olympic Committee. And Mireya Luis, a prominent volleyball player.
Moreover the event was led by President Abinader, the head of Centro Caribe Sports, Luis Mejía Oviedo. And the president of the Santo Domingo 2026 Organizing Committee, José Monegro.
The gala also paid tribute to the countries that have hosted the Central American and Caribbean Games since their inception in 1926. Mexico, Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, Venezuela, Jamaica, Colombia, Panama, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. The latter having hosted the Games three times.
Abinader reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the development of sports. Assured that the facilities built and renovated for the Central American and Caribbean Games will remain at the service of the public after the competition concludes.
Furthermore the president stated that sports are an essential tool for education and health. Highlighted the country’s efforts in welcoming the participating delegations. Noting that the organization of the event has been carried out with “all our affection, all our effort, and all our passion.”
The president of the Santo Domingo 2026 Organizing Committee, José Monegro. He highlighted the spirit of unity that distinguishes Central America and the Caribbean. Affirmed that the Games provide an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of friendship among the peoples of the region.
During his remarks, he maintained that the region’s greatest achievement is being “the most peaceful region in the world.” A status he described as “the ultimate prize, the one that is much harder to attain.”
He also welcomed the 37 participating nations and territories. Whose representatives he called “our friends, our brothers and sisters.”
With this commemoration, Centro Caribe Sports celebrated a century of history dedicated to promoting integration, friendship, and solidarity among the peoples of the region through sport. While also recognizing the nations and individuals who have contributed to the growth of the Central American and Caribbean sports movement.
With information from Prensa Latina
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