In addition to Dominican world-class hurdler F?lix Sanchez, there will be many big-name athletes competing in the 1-17 August Pan Am Games. The List?n Diario says to watch for Cuban high jumper Ivan Pedroso.
In tennis, Colombia?s Fabiola Gzuluaga, Paraguayan Ram?n Delgado, Brazilian Fernando Melingeni, Venezuelans Maria Vento and Milagros Sequera, Puerto Rico?s Cristina Brandy, and Marcelo Rios of Chile are thought to be at the top of their game.
In gymnastics, Danielle Hip?lito of Brazil has high expectations, as does Cuba?s Aliusca P?rez in the event of Javelin.
A big attraction will also be Mexico?s Fernando Plata, who won silver at the Sydney Olympics for Diving, and his teammate Erik Fulnery, who is ranked No. 2 in the world.
Also from Mexico is Track and Field star, Ana Guevara, champion of the 400-meter dash.
Mario Kindelan and Guillermo Rinderboux are Boxing champions, and in Swimming we have a medallist from the Atlanta Olympic games, Cuban Nixen Bent, and world champion in the 50-meter event, Argentinian Jos? Meolan.
Some 7,769 athletes from 42 countries have registered for the Games, a record that can be chalked up to the attractive geographic location of the DR. Additionally 2,443 coaches, trainers and delegates are registered.