Filipino Olympians Are The Bravest

One could build Hidilyn Diaz a monument, gift her loads of cash or all the luxuries in life, or to the extent name her a street or perhaps a national holiday to remember her Olympic success. She deserves it. But as the country roars for Hidilyn’s victory on the grandest sporting stage, the slew of gallant Filipino athletes who fought as hard in Tokyo need the same kind of energy, attention, and admiration — win or lose.

The lead-up to the Olympics isn’t a walk in the park. One should earn the spot based on world rankings, qualifying tournaments, or as wildcard entry from a continental quota system. It is a meticulous process that is aimed to filter thousands of aspirants into the finest set of sportsmen.

That is why participating in the Summer Games, held every four years except for this extraordinary time, is a dream among athletes, albeit a tough competition that awaits them come game day.

Gymnast Carlos Yulo was one of the favorites to win a medal in Tokyo. With a world title in floor exercise under his belt, he was a target on the mat. In the qualifying round, the Manileño struggled with his routine and landed 44th out of 60 competitors. He redeemed himself with a place in the vault finals and came tantalizingly close to a bronze finish.