Big Reception for Dominican Athletes Returning from London Olympics

Big Reception for Dominican Athletes Returning from London Olympics
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, August 13, 2012

H undreds of people waited at the Las Americas International Airport today to welcome a large part of the 35-person delegation of Dominican athletes returning from the London Olympic Games.

The star of the day was “Super Felix,” as he is affectionately known here in the Dominican Republic. In a now-famous race, Felix Sanchez became the only Dominican athlete to win two Olympic Gold Medals – one this year and one in 2004 in Greece, for his 400-hurdle run.

There was great excitement and flag waving in this Caribbean nation in the airport terminal where athletes stopped to thank the public for their show of support and warm reception.

Mission accomplished is what 2008 Beijing Tae Kwon Do champion Yulis Gabriel Mercedes had to say. Unfortunately, Yulis suffered an injury in his first fight this year, which prevented him from repeating his previous Olympic feat.

In addition to Sánchez’s this year’s and his 2008 Gold Medal, the first ever won by a Dominican, the young sprinter, Luguelín Santos, took a Silver Medal and made history in the 400 meter run.

The Dominican Republic shone all around at this year’s Olympic trials in London. To date, since the country began competing in the Olympic competitions back in 1964 in Tokyo, the Dominican Republic has achieved three first-place wins, two second-place wins and one third- place victory.

On a trip into town, the Olympic delegation crossed part of the city’s Malecón (seaside boardwalk) where the rhythm of music and party was already underway.

Along with the winning runners, gymnast Yamile Peña put on an awesome performance on the women’s vault and took sixth place amid stiff competition in London.

Dominican joy also reached the team sports as they cheered on and now welcomed home the women’s volleyball team that took fifth place, pulling way ahead of its previous eleventh place position.

Our nation must be very satisfied and proud with the work done by these dedicated athletes in general and not just for the medals they earned but also for their team spirit and dedication, said Luis Mejia, President of the Dominican Olympic Committee.

By: Servicios de Noticias
E-mail: diariodigitalrd1@gmail.com