Cuba has been living under a dictatorship for more than half a century. The harsh social and economic conditions, coupled with the lack of freedom, have led to the constant desertion of athletes during international competitions.
Judoka Dayle Ojeda was the most recent case. The athlete left the delegation in the middle of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Now, the athlete is in Spain. Specifically in Valencia, where she decided to break the silence with an interview.
Speaking to the Valencia Judo Federation, Ojeda said that he had made the best decision and that he did not regret the step he took. However, he did highlight the difficulty it represents on a personal level, leaving family and friends behind.
“It was a difficult decision to make, as no one is prepared to leave their life behind. It is hard to leave my family, friends, partner and, above all, the place where one is born without being able to say goodbye. Not even to my colleagues. But, I insist, it was the best thing and I do not regret it because it was the best decision. I am sure of it,” she said.
Why did he defect to Spain?
Ojeda acknowledged that she knew about the practice of this discipline in this region of Spain and the reputation of its High Performance Center long before making the decision to escape. Now the athlete will seek political asylum.
“My wishes and goals were clear, and I knew that the level of judo in Valencia is very high. I heard very good things about the High Performance Centre and I knew that they were likely to help me, as they did with the Ukrainian team at a critical and important moment. In addition, I knew Ayumi Leiva, my teammate on the Cuban national team and a friend. I knew that they would also give me their unconditional support, something for which I am eternally grateful,” she said.
Why didn’t you want to return to Cuba?
The decision is a matter of personal and professional ambitions. Living in a country like Cuba, I would probably not have the best opportunities to achieve them.
“There are many reasons, but the desire to improve as an athlete and to feel that you can grow without being stopped or told that you can’t, were some of them. I want to feel that your work and your effort are valued. My desire for personal and professional improvement was what drove me, in addition to my mother, who is my greatest driving force, and she supported me a lot.”
Dayle Ojeda is a Cuban judoka who has had a remarkable career in the sport. Born in Havana, she competed in the +78 kg category and was part of her country’s delegation at several international events.
Throughout her career, Ojeda stood out for her strength and technique, winning silver medals at the Pan American Open on two occasions. Her dedication and skills made her a respected figure within Cuban judo.
Continue reading:
· Unusual: three Cubans climb onto the podium in triple jump, but no medal counted for Cuba
· Cuba makes history thanks to Mijaín López, the first five-time Olympic champion
· The United States expands consular services in Cuba, but excludes tourist and business visas