There is no final decision yet as to how many Pinoy athletes are going to the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
(Because of the Covid 19 situation in China, the organizers deemed it appropriate to defer the quadrennial sportsfest to September 23 until Octber 8, 2023.)
The Philippine Olympic Committee, together with the Philippine Sports Commission, are yet to determine the roster and number which will be composed of athletes recommended by the different NSAs (National Sports Association).
The basic policy should ideally be that all Gold Medalists in the recent SEAG in Cambodia should be sent.
They deserve to get a shot at the Asian gold.
The Philippines finished in fourth place with 54 first placers and so it presupposes that 54 Pinoys wearing the national jersey are sure of participating.
I would disagree to a suggestion that Pinoy silver medalists in Cambodia be given a chance.
The Asian standards are stiff and high, our silver medalists will be “eaten” alive and embarrassed in Hangzhou.
The Asian Games is considered the biggest contest among the world’s regional sportsfest where 51 countries in the planet’s largest continent are taking part.
Five of this number are Russia, China, india, Kazakhstan, Saudia Arabia which are considered the biggest in terms of territory in square miles.
Therefore, emerging an Asian champion means almost like winning an Olympic gold because of the stiff and rigid competition.
Asian Games gold medalists are being held in high esteem in the Olympic and world athletic fora that is why Filipino athletes must be prepared and trained physically and mentally in 100 percent shape.
China, being close in terms of nautical distance to the Philippines offer some financial space for our budget. Unlike when we take part, say in the London or Rio Olympics where air travel is exorbitant, flying to China is relatively cheaper.
So, the idea here is quite clear.
The POC will not wrestle with the PSC for a financial assistance so huge that determining the roster will become a tough task.
All that these two bodies should prevent is when freeloaders and tourists sneaked in, disguising themselves as chaperones and ‘alalays’.
Just three months separate this date from the September Asian Games playdate.
Are the Pinoys ready and reaching the peak of their abilities?
There is not much news coming from the mainstream sports media regarding this aspect.
All we know is that those touted to deliver are polevaulter EJ Obiena, weighlifting Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz, gymnastics superstar Caloy Yulo and the stable of boxers.
Obiena just recently broke the 6.0m barrier.
Unless of course the official list of athletes is determined and approved by the POC, our chances of bringing home some sure golds are still up there in the air. (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com). GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!
