THE PINOY athletes’ performances in the early rounds of the 2024 Paris Olympics continue to make the entire country proud, as they continue to give medal hopefuls something to strive for with their all-out effort.
Some of the most proud sports leaders include the president of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and the chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), both of whom are overjoyed with what they see.
Photo Courtesy: International Gymnastics Federation | Facebook
Despite the fact that the Philippines has yet to win a single medal, PSC chairman Richard Bachmann believes the Filipino delegates in Paris have made an outstanding start.
“This demonstrates how collective efforts from both government and private sectors enable our athletes to maintain great mental and physical readiness throughout the competition,” said Bachmann.
“It’s incredibly fulfilling to me, as a fan, witnessing our Olympians excel and raise the bar. Their overall showing in every battle, win or lose, continues to elevate the success of Philippine Sports.”
Laban Pilipinas!
Bachmann watched yesterday as Aira Villegas won unanimously against Morocco’s Yasmine Mouttaki to move to the round of 16 in the women’s 50kg division of boxing.
Furthermore, Carlos Yulo, the country’s leading gymnast bet, advanced to the finals in men’s artistic gymnastics individual all-around, floor exercise, and vault.
Photo Courtesy: Joanie Delgaco | Facebook
Rower Joanie Delgaco is also making waves, reaching the quarterfinals of the women’s single sculls. However, she clocked in at 7:58:30, relegating her to the semifinals C/D after finishing sixth in today’s match.
Meanwhile, the country has already seen a few exits. Samantha Catantan, a fencer with a knee problem, defeated Brazil’s Mariana Pistoia in the Round of 64 before losing to world No. 2 Arianna Errigo in the Round of 32.
On Sunday, Filipina gymnasts Levi Jung-Ruivivar, Emma Malabuyo, and Aleah Finnegan ended the Philippines’ 60-year drought in their category at the Olympics.
An incomparable fulfillment
In a separate statement, POC President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, who is in charge of managing the athletes, expressed optimism despite the fact that four of the 22 Filipino Olympians had already exited.
“After some eliminations, our athletes are starting to rise. We have to note that during the qualifying rounds all athletes are giving their best in order to secure their spots in the next round,” says Tolentino.
Boxers Nesthy Petecio and Eumir Marcial will launch their respective campaigns tomorrow morning. Kiyomi Watanabe competes in the judo round of 32, as does swimmer Kayla Sanchez in the women’s 100m freestyle.
