Barahona Sports Complex Reopens, Minister Pledges Tournament Funds

BARAHONA, Dominican Republic – Sports Minister Kelvin Cruz officially reopened the newly renovated sports complex in Barahona on Friday, an investment totaling 14 million pesos. During the ceremony, which also marked the start of the Superior Basketball Tournament dedicated in his honor, Cruz announced a 1 million peso contribution to the event.

Speaking at the tournament's opening, Cruz detailed the extensive upgrades made to the facility and assured organizers of the promised financial support. He also received a commemorative plaque acknowledging the tournament's dedication.

“I know that for a long time, people here were asking for this sports complex to be fixed, and we didn't want the year to end without making it a reality,” Cruz stated. “I want Barahona to hold its tournament without hardship. An initial 500,000 pesos will be delivered in the coming days, with another equal contribution to follow in January.”

Cruz attributed the current achievements to the unwavering support of President Luis Abinader. He also revealed the president's plan to invest 200 million pesos in five covered sports facilities across the province, located in the municipalities of Fundación, Jaquimelles, La Ciénaga, and El Peñón. Additionally, an 80 million peso model sports complex is planned for Barahona.

The renovation project included installing over 500 new seats, a professional playing court, improved internal and external lighting, and updated sanitary facilities. Three open courts adjacent to the main complex also underwent remodeling.

This 33rd edition of the Barahona basketball tournament features six participating clubs competing for the Sara Féliz Cup, named after the provincial deputy. In the inaugural game, the 2024 champion, Club Juan Pablo Duarte, faced off against Cacique Enriquillo.

The other clubs vying for the championship are La Unión, Los Cachorros, Santa Cruz, and Gregorio Luperón.

Numerous dignitaries attended the opening ceremony, including Barahona Senator Moisés Ayala, Provincial Governor Oneida Féliz, Deputy Sara Féliz, and the mayors of Barahona and Villa Central, Hamilton Nin and Mictor Fernández, respectively.

Also present were Rafelito Garó, Regional Sports Director; Francisco Arias (Paciori), President of the Barahona Basketball Association; Deputies José del Carmen Montero and Aquiles Ledesma; and Tavito Suberví, Director of Indesur.