Dominican Polanco wins karate gold despite injury at Games

Dominican karateka Penélope Polanco secured the gold medal in the -61 kg category at the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games, triumphing over Venezuela's Claudymar Garcés with a narrow 8-7 victory. The win came despite Polanco battling a recent left hamstring injury, showcasing her resilience and determination.

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I am happy, I have achieved a victory at the expense of the Venezuelan, who is one of the best in the world rankings and in America. Despite the injury I suffered a few days ago, I kept pushing forward in search of that medal for myself and for my people.

Polanco utilized her speed and precise strikes to accumulate her points against Garcés, who had a height advantage. The final point, a decisive blow to her opponent's body, sealed the victory. "I am happy, I have achieved a victory at the expense of the Venezuelan, who is one of the best in the world rankings and in America," Polanco stated after the match. "Despite the injury I suffered a few days ago, I kept pushing forward in search of that medal for myself and for my people."

The match was closely contested, with Polanco's initial speed countered by Garcés's reach. In the final minute, Polanco experienced discomfort in her injured leg and required medical attention. However, she returned to the mat to a standing ovation from the crowd, demonstrating her commitment to finishing the fight.

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I dedicate this medal to my family, who came to support me, to my brother, to my coach, to my muchachos (teammates), to the Dominican people, and of course, to God in whom I always trusted to continue.

Polanco dedicated her medal to her family, coach Yuniesky Silverio Castillo, her teammates, and the Dominican people. She also received a congratulatory call from the Director General of the Dominican National Police, Andrés Cruz Cruz. Polanco, who earned her first gold medal in these Games, described feeling pressure before the fight but credited her coach and the supportive crowd for helping her secure the winning point. In other karate results, Dominican athlete Carlos Herrera won a silver medal in the -75 kg category.

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I felt pressure before the fight, I can't deny it, but thanks to my coach and the public who encouraged me the whole time, I was able to get that last winning point.