Dominican Bernardo Pie Claims Third Straight Gold in Taekwondo at Santo Domingo Games

Dominican taekwondo fighter Bernardo Pie secured his third consecutive gold medal at the Central American and Caribbean Games, triumphing in the -74 kg category at the Santo Domingo 2026 event. Pie demonstrated his experience and skill by defeating Puerto Rico's Adrián Benítez with a 2-0 score in the final match.

The final bout was closely contested, particularly in the first round, where Pie utilized superior technique and defense to gain an advantage. In the second and final round, Pie landed multiple body shots, accumulating the points needed to secure the victory and extend his streak of gold medal wins.

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I feel very honored to represent my country, I am happy, proud of my family and friends who were with me from the stands.

"I feel very honored to represent my country, I am happy, proud of my family and friends who were with me from the stands," Pie told EFE after his victory. "Once again, a historic medal is achieved for the country, strengthening the medal count." He emphasized the importance of the crowd's support, especially during moments of fatigue.

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Once again, a historic medal is achieved for the country, strengthening the medal count.

Pie shared that his motivation stems from the economic hardship he experienced during his childhood and adolescence, recalling times when they "didn't even have shoes to buy." He stated, "I come from a family with resource difficulties; those moments marked my beginnings and were key to achieving what have since become great personal successes and for the country."

Bernardo Pie is the brother of Luisito Pie, who won a bronze medal in taekwondo at the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympic Games, which was the Dominican Republic's sole medal at that event. Bernardo's continued success highlights a strong legacy in the sport for his family and country.

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I come from a family with resource difficulties; those moments marked my beginnings and were key to achieving what have since become great personal successes and for the country.