Dominican Republic announces delegation of 11 athletes for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games
The Dominican Republic is preparing to leave its mark on the African continent. A group of 11 young athletes has been selected to represent the country at the IV Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026, an event that will take place in Senegal from October 31 to November 13. Our representatives will compete in eight disciplines, seeking to hold the tricolor flag high on this world-renowned stage.
The national delegation will be headed by flag bearers Carla Lisbetty Tolentino, a prominent judoka, and swimmer Mauricio Espejo Peña, who will lead the team following a career marked by effort and positive results in their respective disciplines.
Tricolor talent in various disciplines
- Judo: Carla Tolentino, a native of Bayaguana, arrives after winning double gold at the Cadet and Junior Pan American Cup.
- Swimming: Mauricio Espejo Peña and Antonella Aybar will represent the country in the 100-meter freestyle, both with experience in high-level international events.
- Beach Volleyball: The team will be composed of Zoe Paniagua and Yerelin Reyes, who have shown great potential following their outstanding participation in the U23 Continental Tour.
- Sailing: Carlos Ramírez, a young windsurfing prospect, will represent the country after being crowned champion at the Pablito Guzmán Cabarete Classic 2025 tournament.
Strength and speed on the Olympic stage
In the field of combat and athletics, the Dominican representation has figures with great potential. Michael Reyes will take national boxing to the 55-kilogram division, while Yolayni Rosado Valerio will seek the podium in beach wrestling, backed by her track record as a Pan American medalist.
For her part, athletics will be represented by Patricia Siné, a specialist in the 200-meter dash and gold medalist at the Santo Domingo 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games, and Melvin Torres, who will compete in the 400-meter hurdles after accumulating successes in national competitions.
The Dominican delegation is preparing to compete in Dakar 2026, where its young athletes will have the opportunity to measure their talent and experience on one of the main stages of world youth sports.
Finally, fencing completes this group with Aiden Zahran. At 17 years old, Zahran has consolidated his career in the United States with victories in the Spring Cup and the Duel in Miami, now preparing for the challenge in the épée category on Senegalese soil.
