Rafael Leyva, the swimmer from Holguín known as the Triton of Gibara, has passed away in Cuba at the age of 68

Cuban sports bids farewell to Rafael Ernesto Leyva Aguilar, affectionately known as the Triton of Gibara, a former swimmer from Holguín and a prominent figure in Cuban swimming during the 1970s, who passed away on December 29, 2025, in Havana, at the age of 68, as reported by his family to the CiberCuba newsroom. Born on May 8, 1957, in the coastal city of Gibara, Holguín, he dedicated virtually his entire life to the water, leaving a profound mark both through his athletic achievements and his human example.

Trained since childhood at the Waldimiro Arcos pool in Gibara, Rafael Leyva began swimming at the age of 11 and soon became one of the most promising talents in Cuban swimming. In the second half of the 1970s, he established himself as a national champion and record holder in the butterfly stroke, also excelling in freestyle events, which was uncommon for that time.

His peak moment on the international stage came in 1975 during the Central American and Caribbean Championships for Children and Youth, held in Mexico City, where he won the gold medal in the 100-meter butterfly and the bronze medal in the 400-meter individual medley, achievements that placed him among the top youth swimmers in the region.

After finishing his competitive career at the elite level, Leyva never distanced himself from sports. Since the late 1990s, he returned to the pools as a masters swimmer, becoming a familiar and respected figure in these competitions. A member of the Manatí club, he participated continuously in national and international tournaments, including the Ramón Cordovés International Masters Cup, where he was awarded in every edition in which he competed.

For Rafael Leyva, swimming was always more than just medals. In interviews conducted in recent years, he often emphasized the satisfaction of continuing to compete despite the passage of time and the value of reconnecting with old teammates, friends, and rivals who had become like brothers. "Swimming is my life," he stated with conviction.

Beyond his sports career, Rafael Ernesto Leyva Aguilar was an excellent father, deeply cherished by his children, and a family man. Those who were close to him highlight his dedication, affable character, and sense of responsibility. His family, friends, and colleagues will remember him as an upright person, whose human legacy transcends athletic achievements.

Rafael Leyva leaves behind a legacy that transcends titles and records. The Triton of Gibara will be remembered for having defended Cuban swimming throughout his life, both in and out of the pools, with dignity, perseverance, and passion.