(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Filipino community in the Capital is elated over athlete Hidilyn Diaz ending the country's 20-year Olympic medal drought by winning silver at Rio Games early on Monday.
Diaz won the medal in 53-kg weightlifting category. She scored 88 in snatch and 112 in clean and jerk, for a total of 200. Filipinos in Abu Dhabi were surprised by Diaz's success and for many it was the 'best news' in a long while. For Kelly Edra, it's not only a proud moment for any Filipino but also for the sport too. "This comes after 20 years. This is a cherished one. This is not just historic achievement for the country but for the sports community at large," she said. Romy Romaldo was delighted with the achievement. "This has lifted our spirits. We are busy all day and engaged in a race of our own to earn money. Such news is delightful one," he said. Leonardo Lote sees the medal boosting the sport in his country. "It's only boxing that we are aware of or follow. Such honour shifts the focus on the lesser known sports too. Honestly, none of us ever thought that a medal would come through weightlifting. This is good for the sports back home," he said. J-Mark Libsa had mixed reactions on Diaz accomplishment. "It's silver again. When will the elusive gold be clinched," he said. "I am happy but it's still not gold." Apparently, the Philippines got three silvers and seven bronze medals so far from 21 Olympic Games. Mary Baganano was thrilled by the historic feat. "I had a splendid start to my morning as I saw her achievement on Facebook. I am so happy for Diaz." For Neal Noval, the woman weightlifter has given him a reason to smile amid tough times. "I have lost my job this week. Diaz winning at Rio Games is the only good news I have heard for long." All the Filipinos agree that they were not expecting a medal through weightlifting. Some are disappointed as boxer Charly Suarez didn't advance to the Round of 16 in the men's lightweight event. "We need to make our mark. We still have Rogen Ladon left. We are crazy about boxing," Libsa added. And their boxing hero Manny Pacquiao was among the first to laud Diaz through his Facebook post. "Congratulations to Hidilyn Diaz on winning Olympic silver medal for weightlifting. I'm so proud of you," he said. The community here is hoping that Diaz medal is first of more to come.
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