Santo Domingo was the epicenter of Dominican sports this weekend, celebrating the induction of twelve emblematic figures into the Dominican Sports Hall of Fame in its 59th edition.
The event took place at the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center, where personalities and legends of national sport gathered to honor the new immortals.
New Dominican Sports Immortals
The new Hall of Fame inductees include outstanding athletes from various disciplines:
- José Reyes, Edwin Encarnación, and José Offerman (baseball)
- Joan Guzmán (boxing)
- Juan Carlos Jacinto (judo)
- Rubel Salomón (karate)
- Luis Benítez (taekwondo)
- Wilfredo Almonte (athletics)
- Francia Jackson (volleyball)
- Charlie Villanueva (basketball)
- Gonzalo Mejía (player and manager)
- Beato Miguel Cruz (coach, posthumous)
Dionisio Guzmán, president of the Permanent Committee of the Hall of Fame, led the event, highlighting the legacy and international significance of those inducted. Manuel Estrella, Honorary President, and Rafael Damirón, secretary, were also present.
The ceremony featured the participation of the Orfeón de Santiago and the blessing of Monsignor Lorenzo Vargas.
Tributes and Special Recognitions
The event paid tribute to José Ramírez, a prominent Major League player, for his impact on the sport and his exemplary conduct. In addition, Yudelina Mejía was recognized, who made history by winning gold at the World Weightlifting Championship.
Speeches of the New Immortals
The new members of the Pavilion shared emotional words of gratitude:
José Reyes: He thanked God, his family, and those who supported him in his career, dedicating the achievement to his childhood friends.
