Mercedes Pomares, a former volleyball player and member of the legendary team known as the Caribbean Queens, was laid to rest this Wednesday in Havana after passing away at the age of 70.
The first vice president, Raúl Fornés Valenciano, led the Cuban sports community's tribute to Mercedes Pomares, as reported by the state-run news portal JIT on Facebook.
Known as the "Golden Lefty," Pomares passed away on Tuesday in Havana. She was one of the pioneering players who paved the way for the most glorious era in Cuban volleyball.
The passing of this exceptional athlete, a member of the first generation of the Caribbean Queens, was confirmed by Osvaldo Vento, president of the National Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation (INDER), though the cause of death has not been disclosed.
Mercedes Pomares was born in Majagua on May 21, 1954. Standing 1.81 meters tall, she was part of the early group of the Spectacular Caribbean Queens, as remembered by the Facebook page Manos Morenas Del Voley Peruano.
The athlete was hailed as the best attacker at the 1977 Japan World Cup and the 1978 Soviet Union World Championship, where Cuba won its first-ever world championship.
Throughout her career, she earned gold medals at the 1971 Pan American Games in Cali, 1975 in Mexico, 1979 in San Juan, and 1983 in Caracas. As the captain of the Cuban national team, she also won a silver medal at the 1977 Japan World Cup.
Remembering Mercedes Pomares and Her Impact on Cuban Volleyball
In light of Mercedes Pomares' passing, here are some frequently asked questions about her career and legacy in Cuban volleyball.
Who was Mercedes Pomares?
Mercedes Pomares was a renowned Cuban volleyball player known for being part of the legendary Caribbean Queens team. She was a pioneering athlete who played a crucial role in the golden era of Cuban volleyball.
What were some of Mercedes Pomares' notable achievements?
Mercedes Pomares was named the best attacker at the 1977 Japan World Cup and the 1978 Soviet Union World Championship. She also won multiple gold medals at the Pan American Games and served as the captain of the Cuban national team.
What was Mercedes Pomares' nickname?
Mercedes Pomares was affectionately known as the "Golden Lefty" due to her exceptional skills on the volleyball court.