By ASSOCIATED PRESS
PARIS – A new history has been written, but it’s not just all about the two gold and two bronze medals won so far by the Philippines that makes this year’s Olympic journey even more significant.
But also for everybody’s passion and determination to inspire everyone.
That’s how Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Dickie Bachmann sums up the success of Team PH in the Paris Olympics going into its final two days.
“The Olympics is not even done, our weightlifter and golfers still play,” said Bachmann after golfer Bianca Pagdanganan completed another remarkable comeback that put herself in the radar for a possible podium finish.
“Regardless of the results, we can confidently say that the overall performance of the country reflects everybody’s determination and passion to inspire more Filipinos to continuously raise the bar and connect to more people within the grassroots,” said Bachmann.
Bachmann also paid tribute to the non-stop support from everyone for making the Paris edition – the country’s 100th year of participation in the greatest sports show on earth – the best ever performance bar none.
“With Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio recently securing bronze medals, we have solidified these new milestones achieved for our country’s name,” added Bachmann, who is now as busy as a bee in preparation for the scheduled hero’s welcome to the latest batch of Olympic legends.
Gymnast Carlos Yulo, who dazzled everyone – several NBA stars included – for his mind-boggling performance for two straight nights, and along with Petecio and Villegas are leaving this lovely French capital on Monday.
The gallant Filipino athletes and PH officials, led by Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, will be taking a chartered flight upon their arrival in Dubai and be home in Manila by Tuesday afternoon.
“But while this year’s Olympic edition edged the number of medals held from Tokyo 2020, what stands out is the continued success of the Philippines in the Olympics,” said Bachmann.
In the Covid-delayed 2020 Tokyo Games, weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz finally quenched the country’s thirst for Olympic glory with a stunning lift to win the gold medal in the 54kg, a feat that ignited massive celebrations nationwide.
“Our success still grows as we prepare to seek even more victories. These accomplishments have truly inspired millions of Filipinos, demonstrating how sports can elevate our dreams and unite us.”
“Congratulations to everyone, especially the athletes who represented us in the Paris Olympics! We assure you that all Filipinos will continue to keep on supporting as you build a lasting legacy for Philippine sports.”
