"on a shoestring"

Philippine National Games- Archery: Small But Terrible Gabby Moreno

At the Football Field of Dona Monserat Lopez HS, Silay City

Yesterday I chanced upon this young boy named, Luis Gabriel “Gabby” Moreno, a 12-year old archer, he will be turning 13 tomorrow (What an early celebration you have right here in Bacolod). He was actually the grandson of Kuya Germs and the nephew of Ms. Vina Morales and Shaina Magdayao. With his looks, he is a sure kid heartthrob right? But he chose the path of greatness thru sports- ARCHERY.

Luis Gabriel "Gabby" Moreno at the Media Center during my short interview

Who would think that this guy right here has swept the gold medals in his division? As if the 5 gold medals are not enough, he even competed against the adult 17-under division and mind you, got 2 bronze medals. He was just happy smiling (and nervous) when the media people are interviewing him.

Gabby started shooting even before going to elementary. Sporty as such, he tried swimming, soccer, karate, badminton and basketball. His very supportive father, Fred Moreno (a runner like myself), said that the first time he tried shooting in archery, he never stopped playing. How I wish a lot of fathers would be like as supportive and encouraging as he is. I would even say that Sir Fred is Gabby’s fan numero uno.

And so you think he doesn’t have time to enjoy his childhood because of heavy training? No way. When not shooting, Gabby loves to hang-out with his siblings and loves computer games.

Asked about his future plans?

He not only wants to compete but win at the Youth Olympics, World Archery Championships, SEA Games, Asian Games and of course the Summer Olympics.

He will try his best to be the youngest Olympian in Philippine history for the 2016 Olympics. But he has to beat one of his coaches first.

Gabby’s feats as of today:

• Philippine Record Holder for Cub Division set last December 2010. Score of 1354
• 5 Gold Medals at the Philippine National Games Cub Division (5 Gold Medals Sweep)
• 2 Bronze Medals at the Philippine National Games Cadet Division (17 yrs old or under) as of today. There are 4 more days to go for more possible medals.

My thoughts…

I always believe that greatness can be seen even at a very young age. I have seen this in Gabby during my our short chit-chat. With the support of his father, coaches and more opportunities to hone his shooting skills (like this Philippine National Games), it would not impossible that by 2016, we would see Gabby returning to the country proud and standing tall (even if he is small) wearing a gold medal. I’m so excited for the Olympics. THIS IS IT!

Gabby, I’ll have my picture taken with you okay? All the best!

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Philippine National Games 2011 Series is a break from my usual running event posts. The series will highlight stories behind every sports represented as well as athletes who display big potential in their own field. My gratitude goes to PSC Commissioner Jolly Gomez, Sir Lito Cinco and Ms. Mylene Conception for the opportunity to cover such a big event. Mabuhay po kayo pati narin ang PSC at POC!

You can view the PNG OFFICIAL RESULTS: DAYS 1-3 and DAY 4