"on a shoestring"

It is “inspiration after inspiration” as the Batang Pinoy Games Visayas leg is coming to a close. Yesterday I was able to talk to some of the athletes from three different disciplines- Archery, Judo and Badminton.

ARCHERY: Innocence of Crisha Mae Merto 

I was surprised when I saw Chrisha Mae “Missy” Merto on the Archery Range at Silliman University. I really thought she was one of the athletes’ young sister trying to cheer. Standing half my size at age 8, this young innocent-looking archer was on her element during the tournament. She was scoring high points as I watch the competition. She was unfazed by her highschool opponents.

An archer from Cebu City and Missy on the Archery field

Asked why she joined here, “Gusto ko maka-teammate ang ate ko. At gusto ko rin makapunta ng Korea para lumaban doon.” (I want to be teammates with my older sister and I want to go to Korea to compete.) Her sister, Marie Crisabelle Merto, was the two-time champion at the Palarong Pambansa (2010 & 2011).

Proud Missy showing her medals

Missy Merto won 3 gold and 1 bronze medal during the entire competition. Her father/coach was so proud of the achievements she have at a very young age. Come to think of it, she still has 6-7 years left for joining Batang Pinoy games. I’m really excited for this young girl. Reminds me of another young archer, Gabby Moreno who won lotsa gold medals during the Philippine National Games last May 2011.

JUDO: Grit of Jeffrey Lauron

You can see from his eyes that this young boy has an indomitable spirit.

I arrived at COSCA gym to watch a fight of Judo only to find out that only Team Cebu City has a delegation. Their coach, Francis Abella, didn’t told them at first so that they won’t lost enthusiasm. Until the its time for them to fight, so they did a round robin and fight within themselves to know who will be sent to the Batang Pinoy National Finals that will happen in Naga City come December 10-13.

Jeffrey was undefeated after 3 fights, he got a gold medal. Digging deeper, I learned that just a month ago their house caught fire and they are living in a barong-barong (make-shift house) from the remains of the fire. I think that is where he is coming from- pure grit. His situation only strengthened his will to succeed. I wish a lot of athletes are like this 13-year old boy from Mandaue City. Good job Jeffrey, see you in Naga City!

Jeffrey throws his opponent earning him the gold medal

Team Cebu City, Judo

BADMINTON: Determination of Hanah Tudtud

Hanah Tudtud has been playing badminton since she was 10 years old. She is now 15 and came out champion on the girls singles and doubles event. And so when you talk to her, you think everything is alright. She is winning after all, ayt? Again, I want to investigate the real situation so I asked her “What are the challenges she is facing as a young athlete?” She was silent, eyes begin to moistened as she shared that a lot of times she doesn’t have a fare to go to practice. And they do practice every single day. Before she didn’t have a proper badminton shoes. Now, thanks to Southwestern University for issuing them badminton shoes.

Coach, Fritz Gerald Sagaad & Hanah Tudtud

I also learned that she haven’t seen her mother since birth. Her father is also unavailable, so she gets home with her medal and without a parent to give a sense of approval. This I can’t relate anymore but I guess this is too hard for her. But in spite of these things, she continually strives to give her best. She is very much determined to win.

Innocence.

Grit.

Determination.

3 words from 3 sport disciplines make 3 inspiring stories.

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Batang Pinoy Games 2011  is a grass-roots development program organized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to identify young talents to be trained for the national pool of athletes. Mindanao leg was hosted by Zamboanga City (Oct 17-30); Visayas leg is being hosted by Dumaguete City (Nov 10-13); Northern Luzon leg by Baguio City (Nov 24-27); Southern Luzon by Sta. Cruz City (Dec 4-7); NCR leg (Nov 29 – Dec 2); and the Finals will be held at Naga City on December 10-13, 2011.

Official website: Batang Pinoy 2011

Facebook Page: Batang Pinoy (PSC Grassroots Program)