Puntarena, Baní, Dominican Republic — The Dominican Republic reaffirmed its growing role in regional sports by successfully hosting the Pre-Central American and Caribbean Regatta, held from August 29 to 31 in Puntarena with more than 500 spectators in attendance.
The event, organized by the Dominican Sailing Federation (Fedovela) and the Central American and Caribbean Sailing Confederation (Cocecave), brought together 41 foreign athletes and 10 Dominican competitors representing 10 countries across the region.
Puntarena Recognized as Ideal Venue
Organizers noted that the Salinas area in Baní was carefully selected after extensive evaluation of infrastructure and conditions. Puntarena was chosen as the premier venue not only for the Dominican Republic but in the region, thanks to:
- Calm waters and stable sailing conditions
- Average winds of 15 knots year-round
- Accessibility for athletes and visitors
- Safety and well-equipped facilities
“Puntarena is an ideal destination for sailing and water sports, with wind and sea conditions that make it a benchmark for nautical and sports tourism,” the organizers stated.
Competition Results
The regatta featured ILCA and Sunfish classes, with events in both men’s and women’s categories. Highlights included:
- Women’s ILCA 6: Gold Medal — Elena Oetling (Mexico)
- Men’s ILCA 7: Champion — Pedro Fernández (Puerto Rico)
- Men’s Sunfish: Winner — Sebastián Medina (Puerto Rico)
- Women’s Sunfish: Winner — Daniela Rivera (Venezuela)
Delegations competed from Antigua, Aruba, the Bahamas, Belize, Guatemala, the Virgin Islands, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic.
Strengthening the Road to Regional Games
This regatta marked the first official warm-up and qualifying event leading to the upcoming Central American and Caribbean multi-sport competition. By hosting the event, the Dominican Republic strengthened its position as a strategic host nation for international sailing, highlighting its potential as a sub-host for future high-level championships.
Sailing Tourism Potential
With its permanent winds, safe waters, and modern facilities, Puntarena is emerging as a priority destination for sailing federations and sports tourism. The successful hosting of this regatta not only consolidates the Dominican Republic as a regional sailing hub but also supports the country’s ambition to integrate nautical sports into its tourism offerings.
