Félix Sánchez and a Legacy that Inspires Generations

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Félix Sánchez and a Legacy that Inspires Generations

Apr 15, 2025

“Being able to come here with my children and show them that this stadium bears my name… that’s the greatest honor anyone can have.”

Yagnny Figueroa | Corresponsal CCS | – Two-time Olympic champion Félix Sánchez returned to the Olympic Stadium that bears his name, in a visit filled with emotion, historical memory, and inspiration for future generations. Accompanied by Centro Caribe Sports president Luis Mejía Oviedo, “Superman” shared reflections on his career, the meaning of his legacy, and his current role as a mentor and coach.

Sánchez, who won gold at the Athens 2004 and London 2012 Olympic Games, was visibly moved as he stepped once again onto the track where he triumphed during the 2003 Pan American Games—a stadium that now honors his name in recognition of his achievements.

“Being here brings up so many emotions, because this honor is the result of hard work and all I was able to accomplish. Now I’m coaching young athletes who will soon compete in this very stadium… it’s truly an incredible honor,” he said.

During the interview, the former athlete fondly recalled that golden day in 2003 when he won Pan American gold in front of a packed home crowd: “I never expected that many people, a full stadium… and I was able to fulfill the dream of my country and my own dream of winning gold at home.”

Beyond his athletic feats, Sánchez has become a national role model and a source of inspiration for younger generations. Today, as a coach, he is dedicated to shaping champions and exemplary citizens, reaffirming his commitment to Dominican sports.

“Perhaps being a coach is the role I enjoy the most, because I can keep giving back, creating future champions—future examples for their families and their country,” he affirmed.

Sánchez also expressed admiration for sprinter Marileidy Paulino, whom he sees as a worthy successor of the sports legacy he helped to build. “I’m incredibly proud to see a woman born and raised in the Dominican Republic achieve what she has in such a short time. She’s a true role model.”

During his visit, Sánchez also reminisced about his historic gold medal in Athens 2004—the first Olympic gold for the Dominican Republic—and his emotional victory in London 2012, where just weeks before turning 35, he shattered expectations in the 400m hurdles.

“I cried for everything I had lived: sadness, joy, sacrifice… only God knows what He planted in me to never stop fighting for my dream,” he said of his London win.

His return to the stadium also stirred his more reflective and cultural side, as he remembered his trip to Athens, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. There, alongside Luis Mejía, he toured the Acropolis and shared his thoughts on the deep historical roots of Olympism.

“Track and field was a religion to the ancient Greeks. Today, I understand more than ever the significance of what we experienced in Athens,” he said with emotion.

Sánchez also reflected on his identity and roots. Born and raised in the United States, he always longed to be closer to his homeland, his people, and his culture. Today, he recognizes that his mission goes beyond the track: to inspire Dominican youth—both at home and in the diaspora—to believe in their dreams and their ability to rise.

“What I want most is for our athletes to continue raising the Dominican flag high, and to be living proof that with dedication, hard work, and faith in God, anything is possible.”

Félix Sánchez’s legacy has paved the way for entire generations. His story represents the triumph of effort and the pride of being Dominican.

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