Paulino anchors Dominican Republic to relay gold and record

The Dominican Republic's mixed 4x400 meter relay team secured the gold medal at the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo, powered by a stellar anchor leg from Marileidy Paulino. The quartet completed the race in 3 minutes, 10.57 seconds, establishing a new event record.

Erick Sánchez, Anabel Medina, and Christopher Melenciano ran the first three legs, with the team in second place when Paulino received the baton. Paulino surged past the Puerto Rican competitor on the final lap, widening the gap to secure a decisive victory as the stadium erupted in cheers.

Puerto Rico claimed the silver medal with a time of 3:11.88, and Cuba took bronze at 3:13.32. Colombia finished fourth, followed by Mexico and Jamaica.

Paulino, who will also compete in the 400-meter semifinals, highlighted the significance of winning on home turf. "Running before our public is a distinction that we value deeply. We will give our best, with discipline, respect, and dedication, to contribute to the prestige of Dominican sports," she stated.