The legendary Cuban Paralympian Omara Durand embarks on a new chapter, stepping away from the track but staying connected to the sport that made her a beacon of inspiration for countless Cubans. The multi-gold medalist was named the new president of the Cuban Paralympic Committee (CPC) on Saturday during a General Assembly held in Havana, with delegates joining via videoconference from across the nation.
This announcement was made by the state-run newspaper Jit, which also confirmed the end of Alberto Juantorena's decade-long tenure as the head of the organization.
Recognized as the greatest Paralympic sprinter in T12 history, Durand takes on this leadership role just months after officially retiring from her illustrious athletic career.
The Santiago native claimed 11 Paralympic titles across four successive Games: London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024, where she concluded her career with another triumphant triple gold in the 100, 200, and 400 meters.
At 32, Durand is also navigating a significant personal transition, having welcomed her second daughter in July 2025, marking a new chapter beyond elite sports.
Upon her election, Durand acknowledged the significant challenge that lies ahead in leading Cuba's Paralympic movement.
"The challenge is both immense and novel, but with the support of INDER and everyone committed to strengthening this mission, we will overcome it," she stated.
Durand's appointment coincides with the declining health of Alberto Juantorena, a storied figure in Cuban athletics who served as CPC president since 2015.
The double Olympic champion from Montreal 1976 was honored during the assembly as the organization's Lifetime Honorary President.
Juantorena has been battling a neurodegenerative disease since late 2023, which has severely impacted his health. He remains in a wheelchair and experiences difficulties with speech, and his condition was reported as critical in March.
Osvaldo Vento Montiller, President of INDER, praised Durand, calling her "the finest example of Cuban youth values," and highlighted her "simplicity and humility."
National Assembly President Esteban Lazo also congratulated the former sprinter, wishing her success in maintaining the international prestige of Cuban sports.
The meeting also ratified the management report for the 2021-2025 period, which celebrated notable sports achievements, including six titles at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, while also acknowledging issues in fulfilling the national competitive calendar.
The new Executive Committee will comprise Gerdan Fonseca Bernal as vice president, Jorge Reynaldo Palma Montalvo as general secretary, and Johama Jocelyn Salazar Montalvo as treasurer.
Key priorities for the organization include enhancing sports classifications, promoting gender equity policies, and preparing for upcoming regional competitions, such as the Deaf Youth Pan American Games in Guayaquil and the Paracentroamericanos in Puebla, slated for 2026.
The ultimate goal of this new cycle, however, is Los Angeles 2028, where Cuba aims to continue the rich tradition of Paralympic success established by athletes like Omara Durand herself.
FAQs about Omara Durand and the Cuban Paralympic Committee
Who is the new president of the Cuban Paralympic Committee?
Omara Durand, a legendary Cuban Paralympian, has been appointed as the new president of the Cuban Paralympic Committee.
What are Omara Durand's achievements in Paralympic sports?
Omara Durand has won 11 Paralympic titles across four consecutive Games, including London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024.
What are the priorities of the Cuban Paralympic Committee under Omara Durand's leadership?
The committee aims to strengthen sports classifications, advance gender equity policies, and prepare for regional competitions like the Deaf Youth Pan American Games and Paracentroamericanos.