Guantanamo.- The historic Mariana Grajales Coello Revolution Square served as the vibrant backdrop for Guantánamo’s warm reception of its athletes who proudly represented both the province and Cuba at the recently concluded XXV Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo 2026. The event was officially presided over by Yoel Pérez García, First Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee.
Guantánamo’s delegation comprised 21 athletes, two coaches, and one official, competing across ten sports disciplines. Their outstanding performance culminated in securing 12 Central American and Caribbean titles, along with a haul of 15 gold and 7 silver medals. Had Guantánamo competed as an independent nation, it would have ranked ninth in the overall medal standings.
During the ceremony, standout gold medalists such as Anisleidis Ochoa, affectionately known as “La Polaca” in athletics, and beach volleyball star Eblis Veranes, reflected on their unforgettable experience, emphasizing the honor of representing Cuba on such a prestigious stage.
Rolando Carlo Charró, National Athletics Commissioner, praised the exceptional achievements, especially given the challenging circumstances faced by Cuban sports this year.
The province’s top Party leader underscored this success, declaring: “You were sporting heroes in the centennial year of our Commander-in-Chief. Cuban athletes embodied the spirit of the ‘Cerro Pelado’ of our time,” referencing the historic determination of Cuban competitors who overcame obstacles to participate in the 1966 Central American and Caribbean Games in Puerto Rico.
