By MARK REY MONTEJO
Fil-American Aleah Finnegan was dreaming of becoming an Olympian when she was still a little girl.
In 2024, she turned it into reality in the lovely French capital.
Armed with discipline and sheer dedication, the 21-year-old Finnegan reached her goal and was all grateful to all her supporters who believed in her.
“I can’t even begin to describe how much this competition has meant to me and my family. From dreaming about the Olympics since I was a little girl, to finally being out on the floor,” Finnegan wrote on her social media post.
“Thank you Jesus for this crazy journey I get to call my life. [To God Be Glory]!,” she added.
The Louisiana State University ace already made history for the Philippines on her qualification, breaking the 60-year drought of Filipina gymnasts in the quadrennial meet.
Finnegan’s Olympic entry in Paris was followed by her fellow gymnasts in Levi Jung-Ruivivar and Emma Malabuyo who competed along lone male bet Carlos Yulo.
The trio fell short of entering the final round of their respective apparatuses and in all-around as well, but Finnegan tallied her best finish in the vault where she scored 13.387 points to land at 17th place and settled for 37th, 58th, 71st places in Floor Exercise, Uneven Bars and Balance Beam, respectively.
“To my coaches, both at LSU and GAGE. I wouldn’t be here if not for the help, patience, sacrifice and hard work from everyone included. Thank you for supporting me,” Finnegan continued.
“[And] to GAP, POC, and the entire Philippine community, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to represent this beautiful country and accepting me with open arms. I am honored to wear this flag on my chest.”
Ruivivar, the youngest PH delegate at 18, and Finnegan posted similar captions on their social media posts, saying “Forever an Olympian.”
