Professor Luis Enrique Charadán Pierre, an advisor for the badminton World Federation, engages with participants during a crucial training course for badminton referees and linesmen.
Santo Domingo Gears Up for 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games with Elite referee Training
As the Dominican Republic sets its sights on hosting the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo in 2026,a rigorous training initiative is underway to ensure the highest standards of officiating. The Organizing Committee has launched a complete course for badminton referees and linesmen, a vital step in elevating the quality of play and the overall organization of this prestigious international event.
This intensive program, which commenced last Friday at the iconic Félix Sánchez Olympic Stadium, is being expertly guided by Cuban instructors Orlando Arturo Cala Martínez and Luis Enrique Charadán Pierre. Approximately 30 dedicated participants are actively engaged in the training, demonstrating a shared commitment to excellence.
“our goal is to elevate these games to a new level, surpassing previous editions,” stated Cala Martínez, who also presides over the Cuban Badminton Federation and heads the central American Confederation of Badminton. “We are striving for perfection, and with the caliber of this working group, we are confident in our ability to achieve it.”
Cala Martínez elaborated that this training aligns with the stringent technical requirements set forth by the Badminton World Federation.He expressed gratitude to the Organizing Committee for their proactive approach in addressing the technical needs, which he believes will be instrumental in the accomplished execution of the Games.
A key component of the training involves participants undergoing their practical examinations during the upcoming Santo Domingo International Open.This tournament is scheduled to take place from October 15th to 19th on the courts of the New Horizons Academy, located in the heart of the Dominican capital. This real-world application of their skills is crucial for their certification.
“From this dedicated group, the national technical officials who will be certified to officiate at the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games will emerge,” Cala Martínez confirmed, underscoring the importance of this training pipeline.
Luis Enrique Charadán Pierre, an esteemed advisor to the Badminton World Federation, has been particularly impressed by the participants’ drive and dedication. “this training is incredibly meaningful,” Charadán Pierre remarked. “We are all learning here, and the enthusiasm displayed has been truly remarkable.” His extensive experience,having officiated in multiple editions of the Games,lends significant weight to his observations.
The 2026 regional competition will necessitate a robust team of 51 technical officials, comprising 27 international referees and 24 national-level officials. This training course is designed to cultivate and certify this essential workforce.
The course is set to conclude on Tuesday, October 14th, solidifying a technical foundation that organizers are confident will be pivotal in showcasing Dominican badminton at its finest during the Santo Domingo 2026 Games. This investment in officiating expertise is a testament to the commitment to delivering a world-class sporting event.
