Juegos Centroamericanos: Marileidy Paulino wins 400m gold, dedicates victory to Dominicans

Marileidy Paulino secured the gold medal in the 400 meters at the Santo Domingo 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games, an achievement she stated transcends personal glory and belongs to all Dominicans. The Olympic champion dominated the final, crossing the finish line in 48.94 seconds, shattering the previous competition record of 49.95 seconds she had set herself at the San Salvador 2023 Games.

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Today I didn't just run for a medal. I ran with the responsibility and honor of representing the Dominican Republic. I ran so my country could enjoy it, celebrate it, and feel it as a triumph for everyone.

Paulino revealed that her primary motivation was not just winning but proudly representing the Dominican Republic before her home crowd. "Today I didn't just run for a medal. I ran with the responsibility and honor of representing the Dominican Republic. I ran so my country could enjoy it, celebrate it, and feel it as a triumph for everyone," she expressed.

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I ran thinking of every Dominican who gets up to work with effort and, very specially, I ran so that my beloved town of Don Gregorio could experience it, get excited, and feel proud.

The double world champion shared that she thought of every Dominican working hard to get ahead each day. She offered a special dedication to her native community, stating, "I ran thinking of every Dominican who gets up to work with effort and, very specially, I ran so that my beloved town of Don Gregorio could experience it, get excited, and feel proud."

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Every step on that track carried the name of my people, my family, my coaches, and all those who believe in Dominican sports.

She also acknowledged the crucial support from her family, her team, and her career's well-wishers. "Every step on that track carried the name of my people, my family, my coaches, and all those who believe in Dominican sports," Paulino stated. She highlighted that the collective effort, humility, and gallantry characteristic of Dominicans were key to this success. Paulino concluded by urging that this achievement inspire continued pursuit of new goals.

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This race is not mine. This race is yours and it is for you. It is the result of teamwork, humility, and the gallantry that characterizes us as Dominicans.