4 Lessons Kids Can Get From The 2024 Philippine Olympians
The Philippines closed its campaign in the Paris Olympics with two golds and two bronze medals and lessons for the next competition
The Paris Olympics is the most successful campaign by the Philippines since it participated in the event 100 years ago. While we relish the historical moment of Carlos Yulo‘s double gold medal victory and the bronze medals brought by boxers Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio, the experiences of our athletes also brought lots of lessons that parents can pass on to their kids about life.
Hard work pays off
Carlos Yulo was a young gymnast who dreamed of competing internationally. Since his win, videos of him at 12 years old surfaced online when he competed in Palarong Pambansa and later in other competitions. The sacrifices he made back then were part of hard work.
Years, later, we would see him in Tokyo and the international gymnastic competitions he joined. Although battered and bruised from the non-stop training and defeat, Carlos finally earned the fruit of his labor when he got not one but two gold medals in Paris, making him the first gymnast in the country to earn gold, joining Hidlyn Diaz, who got the country’s first gold in Tokyo.
Hard work is something people tend to railroad and do shortcuts. If you go through the challenges, you will not only learn from it but also feel great that you got it by yourself.
So near yet so far but you’ll get there
EJ Obenia was so close to getting a medal but fell short ending his pole vault stint at 4th place. The number 3 rank pole vaulter admitted it hurt and even apologized for it.
“I am heartbroken that a single failure cost me and cost a nation I so deeply love – the podium. I apologize for this outcome; such is life as the world of competitive sports can be exhilarating at times, and painful at others; I have experienced both and unfortunately today I am on the other side of it!” he wrote on August 6.
But he also saw the positive side that he was able to represent the Philippines, saying: ” I am proud of what I was actually able to stitch together for this Olympics, with all the struggles that came with this year.”
If there’s one thing we’ve learned from Carlos and Hidlyn, the hard work pays off but timing happens when it happens. It’s not all that time you’ll get the award you deserve but when it arrives, it will be worth it and more blessings will come.
Do your best and whatever the outcome is be proud!
We’ve often heard the term do your best and that’s what our Olympians did particularly the boxers who had the pressure on them to do better compared to the Tokyo Games. Aira Villegas made her debut and she was able to advance to the final round but fell short, ending with a bronze medal. Although disappointed, she knew she did well and was proud to have been awarded a medal as a first timer in the games.
Nesthy Petecio knew eyes were on her to do better compared to her silver medal in Tokyo. She also fought with her might to advance but just like Aira ended with a bronze. Despite the outcome, Nesthy said she was happy, knowing that in life you can’t have it all.
Sometimes even with all the effort, the results of what one wants may not be what is given. But there is a saying to keep on trying and reach for it.
Don’t give up because what happens will happen
When we are faced with challenges, it’s easy to throw in the towel and give up. But our athletes have proven that if you want something, don’t give up and go for it. The hours they train to perfect their sport means sacrifices on an aspect of their personal life. But they had a goal – to represent the Philippines and bring honor.
When kids face challenges, parents are there to guide them and remind them of their purpose. They may not initially understand what it is but as they grow up, they’ll learn and take it from there.
More about the Olympics!
Like Father, Like Son: Lithuanian Athlete Gets Silver Medal in Paris Olympics
Egyptian Fencer Nada Hafez Competed In Olympics 7 Months Pregnant!
