Dominican 'Reinas del Caribe' win seventh straight volleyball gold

The Dominican Republic's 'Reinas del Caribe' volleyball team cemented their regional dominance by securing their seventh consecutive gold medal at the Central American and Caribbean Games. The team achieved this feat by decisively defeating Colombia 3-0 in the final match held in Santo Domingo.

“

It has been a very difficult match, we know that Dominican Republic is very offensive, however I consider that we grew during the game and we will focus on continuing to improve in all aspects.

The victory, celebrated by a packed home crowd at the Palacio de Voleibol, showcased the team's consistent offensive power. Key players Brayelin Martínez, Yonkaira Peña Isabel, Gaila González, and Jinery Martínez led the charge, ensuring the Dominican team maintained control throughout the sets, which concluded with scores of 25-14, 25-9, and 25-12. The team's setter, Niverka Marte, also delivered a strong performance, complemented by a superior blocking game.

Despite the clear defeat, Colombia's Laura Pascua acknowledged the Dominican team's strengths, stating that while her team grew into the game, their opponents "have many virtues and knew how to find answers." Pascua added that her team focused on improving in all aspects following the match.

“

The success of this selection is continuous work, over many years. That has been the key (...) starting Monday we concentrate for the Norceca for the Los Angeles Olympic Games.

The 'Reinas del Caribe' began their impressive gold medal streak in 2002 at the San Salvador Games. Cándida Arias, speaking to the media, attributed the team's sustained success to "continuous work, over many years." The team's focus now shifts to the upcoming Norceca championship, scheduled to begin August 19th in Santo Domingo, which serves as a qualifier for the Los Angeles Olympics.

“

We feel very happy to have savored the victory in front of the Dominicans. We feel very happy for this massive support that the Dominican people, our families, our friends, always give us. We are elated and loved. We have been carrying this responsibility of dominating the area for a long time and that fills us with happiness.