Santo Domingo Este, R.D. — In an act filled with symbolism, inclusion, and a vision for the future, the President of the Republic, Luis Abinader, led the official inauguration of the Women’s Sports Games, along with the opening of the new sports complex in Ciudad Juan Bosch, a work that marks a before and after in the development of women’s and community sports in the country.
The president was accompanied by prominent figures from the government, including the Minister of the Presidency, José Ignacio Paliza; the Minister of Sports, Kelvin Cruz; and the Minister of Women, Gloria Reyes, who agreed in highlighting the importance of this event as a firm step towards equity and the strengthening of sports in the nation.
The ceremony, held in the modern facilities of the sports complex, brought together hundreds of athletes, coaches, authorities, and community members, who witnessed a vibrant opening, with parades of female delegations, artistic presentations, and a symbolic lighting of the torch that officially started the competitions.
During his intervention, President Abinader highlighted that this initiative is part of his administration’s commitment to social inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of sports as a tool for transformation. “Today we are not only inaugurating a sports complex, but also a space of hope, where our women will be able to develop, compete and demonstrate their talent on equal terms,” he expressed.
The Head of State also emphasized that the Women’s Sports Games represent a recognition of the effort and dedication of thousands of Dominican athletes who, over the years, have raised the name of the country on national and international stages. In that sense, he reiterated the Government’s support to continue creating public policies that promote the integral development of women’s sports.
For his part, the Minister of Sports, Kelvin Cruz, called the event a historic moment for Dominican sports institutions. “This complex is a demonstration of the Government’s commitment to the decentralization of sports and to the creation of worthy spaces for sports practice. Today we celebrate the female athlete, her discipline, her dedication and her ability to inspire an entire generation,” he said.
Cruz also highlighted that the Women’s Sports Games seek to encourage female participation in various disciplines, promoting values such as healthy competition, teamwork, and personal improvement. She indicated that the event will feature the participation of athletes from different provinces of the country, competing in disciplines such as athletics, volleyball, basketball, soccer, among others.
On her part, the Minister of Women, Gloria Reyes, emphasized the social impact of this initiative, pointing out that sport is a powerful tool for female empowerment. “These games are not only a sports competition, they are a clear message that women have a leading role in all spaces, including sports. We are building a more just society, where girls and young women can dream big,” she said.
Meanwhile, José Ignacio Paliza highlighted the importance of investment in sports infrastructure as part of the integral urban development of projects such as Ciudad Juan Bosch. “This complex is not only for today’s athletes, but for future generations. It is a space that will strengthen the social fabric and contribute to a better quality of life for all residents of this community,” he said.
The Ciudad Juan Bosch sports complex boasts top-notch facilities, including multi-purpose courts, areas for athletics, recreational spaces, and zones for high-performance training. Its design meets modern standards, ensuring accessibility, safety, and functionality for athletes and visitors.
The opening day concluded with a festive atmosphere, where the joy and enthusiasm of the participants were felt in every corner of the venue. The delegations paraded with pride, representing their provinces and making it clear that Dominican female talent is more alive than ever.
With this initiative, the Dominican Government reaffirms its commitment to the development of sports, the inclusion of women, and the creation of opportunities for all sectors of society. The Women’s Sports Games and the Ciudad Juan Bosch sports complex are projected as a lasting legacy, which will contribute to the training of new generations of athletes and the strengthening of a more equitable and participatory sports culture in the Dominican Republic.
