A regrettable internal miscommunication within the Cuban delegation prevented paralympic athlete Ever René Castro Martínez, a prominent figure in Cuba's para sports, from winning gold at the 2025 Cali Para-athletics Grand Prix. As reported by Periódico 26, a member of the delegation was aware of the schedule change for the javelin event in the F-41 category but failed to inform the athlete from Las Tunas, resulting in his absence from the competition.
The final was initially set for 5:00 p.m. but was moved forward to 11:40 a.m. due to rain in Cali, the capital of Valle del Cauca. The most striking detail: Ever René was the only competitor registered in his class, according to the official event site. Had he participated, he would have automatically secured the gold medal, earning crucial points at the start of the Paralympic cycle leading to Los Angeles 2028.
From Continental Champion to Victim of Mismanagement
Castro Martínez is a renowned name in para-athletics. Hailing from Puerto Padre in Las Tunas province and a source of pride for Maniabón, he currently holds the continental record for the F-41 category with a throw of 36.04 meters, achieved at the 2024 Xalapa Grand Prix in Mexico. This year, he confirmed his form by reaching 35.45 meters at a national competition in Havana's Pan American Stadium.
His participation in Cali was his first international event in the Paralympic cycle toward 2028 and was crucial for gaining experience and ranking points. However, the negligence of his technical team not only denied him a sure victory but also highlighted the structural management issues plaguing Cuban sports, even at the highest levels of competition.
What's Next for Ever René?
Despite this setback, the star javelin thrower's schedule remains active. He is expected to represent Cuba at the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, India, from September 26 to October 5, 2025. Yet, the question lingers: Can he focus on competing if his own delegation fails to support him as he deserves?
Key Issues in Cuban Para-athletics
What caused Ever René Castro Martínez to miss his event?
A member of the Cuban delegation knew about the rescheduled javelin event but failed to inform Castro Martínez, preventing him from participating.
How did this miscommunication affect Ever René's career?
The miscommunication denied him an automatic gold medal and valuable points for the Paralympic cycle, highlighting management issues in Cuban sports.
What are the future plans for Ever René Castro Martínez?
He is set to compete at the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, India, later in 2025.