BY MARK REY MONTEJO
Filipina wunderkind Mazel Paris Alegado continued to draw attention and boost her status after winning a gold medal in the California Amateur Skate League (CASL) National Championship at the YMCA Krause Family Skate and Bike Park last Wednesday, Jan. 17.
Alegado topped the Girl Park Open Advanced category by tallying 86 points to beat out America’s Nina Ye (85.33), Joey Yarbrough (85) and Elle Warne (76.67).
Alegado performed her routine without fear despite competing against older rivals – just like the way she dazzled during the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China last September where she became the youngest member of the PH team in the quadrennial meet.
The 9-year-old sensation made quite an impression after advancing to the 8-player final round of the women’s park event.
She finished only 7th but earned raves from almost everyone, what with her grace and courage.
Alegado started her skating journey at five years old and won a number of titles since then because of her daring and unique routines.
Among the highlights of a flourishing career were winning the Mini Ramp Girls division of the CASL, topping the Exposure Skate Intermediate Bowl and collecting a bronze in the Vans Skatepark Competition.
