Central Bank opens 2026 Interdepartmental Games honoring Olympic champion Félix Sánchez

Santo Domingo.- Governor of the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD), Héctor Valdez Albizu, officially opened the institution’s XXIX Interdepartmental Games 2026, dedicating this year’s event to two-time Olympic and world champion Félix Sánchez.

The opening ceremony was held on September 18 at the Central Bank Employees Club softball stadium. Valdez Albizu highlighted Sánchez’s achievements in the 400-meter hurdles and his continued work as a coach and mentor to young athletes.

The governor said the dedication forms part of the BCRD’s efforts to promote sports, family values, teamwork and camaraderie among its employees. The previous edition drew more than 2,000 participants across 18 sports and activities, according to the institution.

During the ceremony, Sánchez received a plaque recognizing his sporting career and a commemorative coin marking the BCRD’s 70th anniversary. In his remarks, he encouraged employees to preserve the games and uphold the institution’s reputation.

Sánchez attended the ceremony with his wife, karate champion María Dimitrova, who was also recognized during the Central Bank games in 2019. Their participation marks the first time a married couple has received the dedication of the BCRD’s interdepartmental games.