Celebrating a Century of Filipino Excellence in the Olympics
All local Olympic hopefuls from the Philippines, along with their physical trainers and nutritionists, are embarking on a month-long training camp in the city of Metz, France, in preparation for the upcoming Paris Games. This initiative comes ahead of the centenary year of the Philippines’ participation in the Olympics.
Training in Metz
The picturesque city of Metz, located about 300 kilometers east of Paris, will serve as the primary training location for the Filipino athletes. The training camp is scheduled to start in late June to allow the athletes to acclimatize themselves to the weather before the Paris Games opening on July 26.
Facilities and Support
According to the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham Tolentino, Metz will provide all necessary equipment and facilities for the athletes’ training. Shuttle services will be available to transport athletes to practice venues, with Metz serving as the main hub for the training camp.
Various sports disciplines, including gymnastics, athletics, swimming, boxing, and weightlifting, will have access to Olympic-regulated tools, equipment, and venues in Metz. Additionally, sparring partners will be provided for competitions that require them.
Quest for Gold
The Filipino contingent, led by athletes such as pole vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnast Caloy Yulo, weightlifter Vanessa Sarno, and boxers Eumir Marcial and Nesthy Petecio, aims to replicate the success of weightlifting star Hidilyn Diaz, who secured a historic gold medal in the Tokyo Games.
More Filipino athletes are expected to qualify through Olympic Qualifying Tournaments and universality slots designated for the Asian region. Athletes from Brazil, Canada, and various African countries will also be training in Metz alongside the Filipino delegation.
Media Coverage
Cignal TV plans to produce a 13-part miniseries documenting Team Philippines’ journey towards the Paris Games. The series, titled “Isang Daang Taon Laban Para sa Bayan: Celebrating 100 Years of Filipino Excellence in the Olympics,” will provide comprehensive coverage across free and pay TV channels, as well as online livestreaming platforms.
The programs are expected to be broadcasted on RPTV, One Sports, and other channels, including the Pilipinas Live app. This initiative aims to showcase the dedication and hard work of Filipino athletes as they strive for Olympic success.
Historical Perspective
A century ago, sprinter David Nepomuceno became the first Filipino to participate in the 1924 Summer Olympics, which were also held in Paris. Despite his efforts in the 100m and 200m dash events, Nepomuceno did not advance to the final rounds.
The Philippines achieved its first gold medal through Hidilyn Diaz in the Tokyo Games, marking a significant milestone in the country’s Olympic history. As the Filipino athletes gear up for the Paris Games, they carry the hopes and aspirations of a nation rooting for their success.
