Marlies Mejías Conquers Road Race in Santo Domingo, Claims 10th Gold

Marlies Mejías has etched her name in history by winning the road cycling race at the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo. The Cuban cyclist from Artemisa demonstrated exceptional strength and strategy, claiming her 20th gold medal for the Cuban delegation and her 10th career gold in this prestigious regional event. Mejías triumphed on a demanding course, outmaneuvering powerful teams from Mexico, Colombia, and Trinidad and Tobago. She initiated a decisive breakaway with six laps remaining, managing her effort to conserve energy for the final sprint. "I tried not to despair. I tried an escape to break the group and it happened," Mejías stated after the race. "When I looked, I was away with the world champion and the best sprinters. Then I told myself: 'Calm down, don't despair, wait until there are two laps left to tire them a bit.'" Despite facing cramps in the demanding Caribbean sun, she maintained her composure. "Cramps appeared, and I told myself I couldn't lose my head. I knew tactically I had to enter the last corner in second position, no further back. I entered second and when I launched the sprint, I heard a noise behind me, someone fell, but I only thought: 'I have to give it my all until the finish line.'" This victory holds special significance for Mejías, as her family has ties to the Dominican Republic. "This victory is very special. My family is linked to this land: my husband and my daughter are from here. I hope that both in Cuba and in the Dominican Republic they enjoy this triumph immensely," she shared emotionally. Having previously won this event in 2014, Mejías's remarkable longevity and consistent performance underscore her status as a cycling legend.

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I tried not to despair. I tried an escape to break the group and it happened. When I looked, I was away with the world champion and the best sprinters. Then I told myself: 'Calm down, don't despair, wait until there are two laps left to tire them a bit.'