By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
The next generation of elite gymnasts hopes to make an impact when the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships unfold on Thursday, Nov. 20, at the Newport World Resorts in Pasay City.
Karl Eldrew Yulo, the country’s rising star, spearheads the ambitious campaign of the Philippine squad as he and his male teammates Hilario Palles III, Anthony Palles and CJ Pernia see action in the MAG qualifications on Thursday along with 73 other participating nations.
His female teammates — Sabina Tayag, Maxine Bondoc, Jellian Bantilan and Elisabeth Antone — compete on Friday, Nov. 21.
The MAG and WAG all-around finals are set on Saturday, Nov. 22, while apparatus finals are scheduled on Sunday, Nov. 23, and Monday, Nov. 24.
International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) President Morinari Watanabe believes the competition serves as a stepping stone for aspiring Olympians.
“The road to the 2028 Los Angeles (Olympics) starts here in Manila,” said Watanabe during the press conference last Wednesday, Nov. 19, ahead of the tournament.
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio also thanked FIG for entrusting the hosting to the country.
“We can see our goal: grassroots to gold, gold to greatness,” said Gregorio.
“Sports is always good news. Not just to the gold medalists, but it is for every Filipino. If we can highlight the Philippines as a sports tourism destination, then it is a good investment to develop our athletes and promote our country,” he added.
