The Baja California delegation that represented Mexico at the Santo Domingo 2026 Central American Games was formally recognized by the state government during a ceremonial event attended by athletes and coaching staff.
The gathering also celebrated the achievements of Mexicali natives Álvaro Santacruz and Gael Hernández, who were part of the Mexican team that claimed the championship at the 2026 Caribbean Series Kids.
Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda underscored that local competitors had surpassed their own previous records throughout the regional competition.
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Reaffirming her administration’s commitment to athletic development, the governor pledged that no athlete would be left without the necessary resources for proper training.
“Each of these forty medals reflects the strength and dedication of Baja California’s athletes, who helped place Mexico at the top of the medal standings in Santo Domingo,” the governor stated.
She added that the days when athletes were forced to plead for aid are now behind them, emphasizing that her government remains fully dedicated to sports promotion as a fundamental pillar of the State Development Plan.
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Economic Aid Giveaway
As part of the official protocol, financial incentives were awarded to all medal-winning athletes, representing a total investment of 470,000 pesos.
Gold medalists received 30,000 pesos each, while silver and bronze medalists were granted 20,000 and 15,000 pesos, respectively.
Laura Elena Marmolejo Toscano, Director General of the Baja California Institute of Sports and Physical Culture (INDE BC), provided a detailed breakdown of the delegation’s performance across various disciplines.
She highlighted results in fencing, artistic gymnastics, sport shooting, archery, weightlifting, rowing, swimming, bowling, basketball, softball, field hockey, and boxing, noting that government support allows for the continued investment in the dreams and futures of the state’s youth.
Tijuana fencer Natalia Botello, speaking on behalf of the honored athletes, said that the economic and institutional aid granted by the state provides a genuine opportunity to compete internationally against the world’s best while proudly representing their families and Baja California.
The state government reiterated its commitment to expanding sports infrastructure and scholarship programs, ensuring that every child and young person with athletic promise finds the conditions needed to compete in the world’s most demanding stages.
