Former volleyball player Mercedes Pomares Primelles, famously known as “the golden left hand of Cuban volleyball,” has died at the age of 70. She was part of the first generation of the Caribbean Queens. The news of her passing was confirmed by Osvaldo Vento, president of the National Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation (INDER), though the cause of death remains undisclosed.
Mercedes Pomares was born in Majagua on May 21, 1954. Standing at 1.81 meters, she was a key member of the original Spectacular Caribbean Queens, as noted by the Manos Morenas Del Voley Peruano Facebook page. She earned the title of best attacker at the 1977 World Cup in Japan and the 1978 World Championship in the Soviet Union, where Cuba claimed its first-ever world championship.
Throughout her illustrious career, Pomares won gold medals at the Pan American Games in Cali '71, Mexico '75, San Juan '79, and Caracas '83. As captain of the Cuban national team, she also secured a silver medal in the 1977 World Cup in Japan.
Mercedes Pomares is regarded as one of the pioneering players who paved the way for the golden era of Cuban volleyball.
Legacy of Mercedes Pomares and Cuban Volleyball
Below are some frequently asked questions about Mercedes Pomares and her impact on Cuban volleyball.
Who was Mercedes Pomares?
Mercedes Pomares was a legendary Cuban volleyball player, known for her exceptional skills and leadership in the sport. She was part of the first generation of the Caribbean Queens and played a crucial role in Cuba's rise to volleyball prominence.
What are some of the achievements of Mercedes Pomares?
Mercedes Pomares was named the best attacker at the 1977 World Cup in Japan and the 1978 World Championship in the Soviet Union. She also won gold medals at the Pan American Games in 1971, 1975, 1979, and 1983, and a silver medal at the 1977 World Cup in Japan.