Sunday, October 13, 2019

Carlos Yulo wins Gold at the Gymnastics World Championships!

Historic news for Filipinos all over the world: Carlos Yulo won the gold medal in the men's floor exercise at the 2019 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships! Carlos already etched his name in history last year as the first Filipino - and first South East Asian - bronze medalist at the World Championships. This year, he took it a couple of steps further by taking home the Gold. Bravo!!!

That he accomplished this by competing in a sport that isn't that popular in the Philippine or where we have been very competitive at the international level in the past is even more impressive. Check out his amazing performance here:


video uploaded in youtube by Traveler's Couch by Moon Ray Lo

I love how excited the commentators were as they talked about his routine. And what a spectacular routine it was! His elevation, the speed of his twists, and his strength and athleticism were sensational. We have to give massive props to his coach - Munehiro Kugimiya - without whom Carlos wouldn't have achieved what he did. I also have to say that it was quite emotional hearing the Philippine National Anthem being played during the awarding ceremony.

There is now talk about Carlos' chances of being the first Filipino to win an Olympic Gold in Tokyo in 2020. I personally don't want to put that pressure on him, especially in a sport that doesn't really have front-runners because so many gymnasts have the capability of winning gold. Regardless of what happens next year, Carlos has already made his country very, very proud.

I join the entire Filipino community in celebrating Carlos' achievement. Congratulations and thank you, Carlos!!!

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