By REYNALD MAGALLON
Tiona Althea Quesada didn’t shy away from the spotlight in her very first international tournament by bagging the bronze medal in junior division of the Kyorugi (sparring) discipline in the 16th ASEAN Taekwondo Championships at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Paranaque City on Saturday, March 11.
For the pride of General Santos, winning the welterweight bronze for Team PH was already a big achievement on her part.
She was a clear underdog in her division but showed steely resolve and great timing to reach the medal round to the delight her parents and supporters.
Hopefully, the bronze medal would just be the start of something good for the career of the Far Eastern University standout.
She vowed to train even harder so she can further polish her weapon as she intends to become a full-fledged member of the national team.
At 5-foot-5, the 16-year-old Quesada has what it takes to become an Asian champion someday.
And hopefully, with her dedication, Quesada, a consistent winner since embracing the sport at the tender age of five years old, can achieve her ultimate goal – that is to represent the country in the Olympics.
Actually, Quesada, who traces her roots to Marbel, South Cotabato, was just one of top Filipino performers in the event.
At the close of the two-day tournament that lured the best fighters from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Laos, Team PH produced 18 golds, 13 silvers and 29 bronze medals.
