Central American Games: Marileidy Paulino reclaims gold

Under heavy rain, Marileidy Paulino reaffirmed her status as the Dominican Republic's top track and field athlete and one of the world's leading sprinters by capturing the gold medal in the women's 400 meters at the Santo Domingo 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games. Paulino crossed the finish line in 48.94 seconds, shattering the previous Games record of 49.95, which she herself had set in 2023.

Paulino established a decisive lead in the final 150 meters, securing her second consecutive regional title without significant challenge. Her performance further solidifies an already stellar career, which includes an Olympic gold medal from Paris 2024, multiple world championships, and Diamond League titles.

The silver medal went to Cuba's Roxana Gómez with a time of 49.99 seconds, while Shaquifa Maloney of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines took bronze in 51.77 seconds.

Paulino's win marks another significant contribution to the Dominican Republic's medal count in athletics at the Games. The host nation continues to vie for top positions in the overall medal standings, with Paulino's dominant performance highlighting the country's athletic prowess.