By REY C. LACHICA
PARIS – Here’s one pleasant news for Filipino athletes still competing in the Paris Olympics here.
Hidilyn Diaz, the country’s first Olympic gold medal winner, is arriving in the French capital as a member of the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Athletes Commission either on Aug. 3 or Aug. 4.
This was confirmed by Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Dicky Bachmann on Tuesday, July 30, as the PH team is bracing for a hectic schedule a day after a lull as no Filipino athlete saw action on Monday.
“She’s arriving either on Aug. 3 or Aug. 4,” said Bachmann in a text message, adding that Diaz’s arrival would be a great source of inspiration for other Filipino athletes still in contention that include the three weightlifters.
Bachmann said Diaz inaugurated a weightlifting academy on July 26, the very day she clinched the first gold of the nation.
“Her presence will definitely add much-needed inspiration to all our athletes competing in these Games especially that we have a very good start in this Olympics,” said Bachmann.
“She is the face of Philippine sports.”
Weightlifting boss Monico Puentevella readily agreed.
“Her presence alone is enough to give other Filipino athletes the extra boost,” said Puentevella.
Diaz made history during the Tokyo Games when she won the gold in the 55kg class in record fashion, a feat that lifted the nation from despair after almost being brought down by Covid pandemic a year before.
Diaz’s great success ignited massive celebrations in almost every part of Mindanao, Visayas and Luzon, showering her with precious gifts, financial and otherwise, being the newest hero of the modern era.
With Diaz around, the country’s three weightlifters – Vanessa Sarno, John Febuar Ceniza and Elreen Ando – are expected to rise to the challenge.
