Olympic champion Marileidy Paulino will run in the mixed 4x400-meter relay on Monday as track athletics begins at the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026. The race marks her return to the event after four years.
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Minister of Sports Kelvin Cruz announced that the sprinter will compete in three events during the regional competition. Along with the mixed 4x400 relay, Paulino will contest the 400-meter flat and the women's 4x400-meter relay.
Paulino confirmed her participation on social media, noting that the race is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. at the Estadio Olímpico Félix Sánchez. The event gives her the opportunity to share the track with her national teammates and run before local Dominican fans.
National team commitment
Paulino said she considers it an honor to represent the Dominican Republic again in the mixed relay after four years. She expressed that competing at home in Santo Domingo alongside her teammates is a double privilege.
The Olympic medalist stated that the team approaches the competition with the highest sense of responsibility. She noted that their preparation focuses on proudly defending the national colors, honoring the efforts of previous athletes, and inspiring new generations of athletes.
Competing before home fans
Paulino highlighted the special meaning of competing at home on the first day of track athletics. She said running before the Dominican public is a distinction the team deeply values.
She added that the team will give their best with discipline, respect, and dedication to contribute to the prestige of Dominican sports.
