On August 9, 2024, Marileidy Paulino made history by becoming the first woman from the Dominican Republic to win a gold medal. The track and field star easily outperformed her competitors in the 400-meter race, bringing immense joy to the people of the Dominican Republic. The streets of Nizao, Dominican Republic, were filled with celebration as people waved their Dominican flag. At the same time, her neighbors, family, and friends enthusiastically blew horns and whistles and raised their hands in triumph.
Before the race, numerous local publications sat with the multi-generational Paulino home and asked their predictions; they all predicted Mariledy would win. In becoming the first female gold medalist of the Dominican Republic, Mariledy also set an individual record, finishing at 48.17. She can confidently say she’s the fastest woman at the Olympics.
As the daughter of Dominican immigrants, I feel immense pride in her win. As the Dominican flag rose on the flagpole and the Dominican National Anthem played, my eyes welled up as Mariledy stood in first place.
Felicidades Mariledy eres un tesoro nacional.