Por Redacción TV Yumurí 
Family dynasties abound in the history of Cuban sports. In baseball we know about children who have tried to prolong the legend of their parents. However, this succession is not only reduced to the ball, not to the athletes. Fondness for a discipline is inherited in unforeseen ways and directions
With the phrase «…you look like your father…» the character of Alexander Labrada Torres, who practices the trade of imparting justice, for which he became passionate from home, in the nucleus of a family from Pinar and a lover of canoeing, was revealed in advance.
“At home the values of any person are formed, particularly I also began to love canoeing. My father was also a referee, from him I learned everything about the profession. Arbitration is firmness and professional ethics.”
Between medicine and arbitration
“I am a doctor but the experiences with my father since I was young inevitably attracted me to arbitration. Maintaining his legacy is a commitment and a responsibility. I think I’m doing well because people point out our similarities at work in a positive way.”
Applying the rules in Cuban canoeing admits «it is a difficult task due to the temperament of the athletes and the circumstances in which the competitions are held.» The body of judges and arbitrators annually conduct qualification courses in the country, however the means of work do not match international standards.
“Together with two Cuban referees, including Professor Rene Romero, I participated in the Central American and Caribbean Games in Veracruz, Mexico, as head of arrival. I admit that technology shocked me, many times here we don’t have telescopic sights and the work is difficult. In these competitions, contact with the athlete is not necessary because technology plays a great role.”
The Rules and Arbitration group of the National Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation (INDER) prioritizes the participation of the most qualified referees in national tournaments, since these events constitute the basis for mastering the practice required by appointments abroad.
Alexander is common in domestic conflicts. His severity regarding the discipline of the athletes and enforcing the regulations, has allowed him to earn, in addition to the respect of the Cuban canoeing family, the opportunity to also represent Cuba in the Alba Games, tournaments that will return soon.
“I participated in several Alba Games, in one I was even within the Cuban medical mission in Lara State; As they were carried out in that very town, I joined the team. I believe that these types of events are essential for the sport because Venezuela has acquired a level in the area and that contact allows the country to test its competitive arsenal, it is also a stimulus for the best referees.”
Alexander Labrada Torres, the youngest of the children of this family where several of its members practice the trade of dispensing justice, is one of the referees proposed for the Central American and Caribbean Games in San Salvador 2023. HE will undoubtedly continue the legacy of his father Leonel because the passion for canoeing, as well as the DNA, is carried in his veins.
Translated by Casterman Medina de Leon