This past Saturday, Cuban athletes claimed a total of five gold medals at the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026. The triumphs came from Milaimys Marín, Laura Herin, Yainelys Sanz, and Greili Bescosme in women's freestyle wrestling, and Marlies Mejías in the cycling road race.
The women's freestyle wrestling team enjoyed an impeccable day, securing titles in the 50, 53, 57, and 76-kilogram categories, contributing four golds and a bronze to Cuba's overall tally.
Dominance on the Wrestling Mat
Olympic and world bronze medalist Milaimys Marín concluded her competition with a resounding 7-0 victory over Venezuela's María Acosta in the 76-kilogram final, surpassing her performance at the San Salvador 2023 Games.
In the 53-kilogram category, Laura Herin achieved a 6-3 victory over Venezuelan Alexa Álvarez, securing her second consecutive Central American and Caribbean Games title. After a tight first period ending 4-3, Herin extended her lead in the second to clinch the win. She became the only Cuban wrestler to defend her title from San Salvador 2023, dedicating her success to her coach, teammates, family, partner, and the Cuban people.
Yainelys Sanz captured the 57-kilogram crown by overcoming a deficit against Mexican Bertha Rojas, turning the match around in its final seconds.
Greili Bescosme claimed gold in the 50-kilogram division, defeating Mexico's Mercedes Castillo, who had previously bested her at this year's Pan American Championship. Bescosme led the first period 1-0 and capitalized on a passivity penalty against her opponent in the second. She executed a four-point throw, continuing the move to secure a pin and fulfill her dream of winning a Central American title.
Thrilling Cycling Victory
The day's fifth gold for Cuban women came from cyclist Marlies Mejías, who triumphed in the road race, winning the final sprint against a breakaway group of 16 riders. Trinidadian Teniel Campbell finished second, followed by Mexico's world champion Yareli Acevedo.
The race spanned 123.28 kilometers across eight 13.5-kilometer laps near Santo Domingo's Malecón. Mejías recounted breaking away with six laps to go, maintaining composure despite cramps, and ultimately executing a decisive sprint.
For the 34-year-old athlete, the victory was particularly meaningful as her husband and daughter are Dominican. She dedicated her win to both Cuba and the Dominican Republic, as well as her family and the Cuban populace. This achievement marked her tenth Central American and Caribbean Games gold medal.
Looking ahead, Mejías aims to qualify for the World Championship, earn points for an Olympic berth, and compete in the Pan American Games.
These five gold medals were a highlight of the eighth day of Santo Domingo 2026, celebrated on August 1, where Cuba's delegation also excelled in other sports.
Key Highlights from the Central American and Caribbean Games
Who won gold medals for Cuba in wrestling?
Milaimys Marín, Laura Herin, Yainelys Sanz, and Greili Bescosme each secured a gold medal in their respective weight categories in women's wrestling at the games.
How did Marlies Mejías perform in the cycling event?
Marlies Mejías won the gold medal in the road race, showcasing her skill by winning the final sprint against a competitive field.
What were the distances and challenges in the cycling race?
The cycling race covered 123.28 kilometers over eight laps on a 13.5-kilometer circuit. Challenges included maintaining position and enduring physical strain, such as cramps.