Former Cuban volleyball star Ramón Gato Moya has reunited with his mother in Italy after six long years of separation. Gato shared a heartfelt moment on his Facebook page, posting a photograph taken with his mother at her home in Verona, located in the northern part of the country.
"With my mom, Esperanza Moya Font. The last time we saw each other in person was in August 2018. Today, after 6 years, we meet again. Thank you for this beautiful moment. A mother is always a mother," he expressed.
Born in Camagüey on November 16, 1973, Ramón Gato was a formidable attacker who was part of the national team from 1994 to 2001, participating in all international events during that period.
In December 2001, while in Flanders, Belgium, Gato left his hotel and, along with his teammates Ihosvani Hernández, Leonel Marshall, Jorge Luis Hernández, Ángel Dennis, and Yasser Romero, boarded a train to Italy, where they sought political asylum.
Just months prior, the group had won the gold medal at the FIVB Grand Champions Cup in Japan. Following his defection, the athlete from Camagüey continued his career in various professional leagues for many years, including in Italy.
According to volleywood.net, from 2003 to 2008, he played for the Verona team and had a brief stint in Qatar with Al Arabi from 2004 to 2005. He later played with Padua, the Slovenian team ACH Bled, and for Geotec Isernia in the A2 Division of the Italian League.
Key Moments in Ramón Gato Moya's Volleyball Career
The following questions and answers provide additional insights into the significant events in Ramón Gato Moya's life and career.
When did Ramón Gato Moya leave Cuba?
Ramón Gato Moya left Cuba in December 2001 while in Flanders, Belgium. He and some of his teammates sought political asylum in Italy.
Which teams did Ramón Gato Moya play for after leaving Cuba?
After leaving Cuba, Ramón Gato Moya played for several teams, including Verona in Italy, Al Arabi in Qatar, Padua, ACH Bled in Slovenia, and Geotec Isernia in the Italian A2 Division.
What was one of the notable achievements of Gato's team before seeking asylum?
Before seeking asylum, Gato's team won the gold medal at the FIVB Grand Champions Cup in Japan.