Philippine Taekwondo team wins gold medals in Chuncheon Korea Open 2019

Rea Gierran

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Philippine Taekwondo team wins gold medals in Chuncheon Korea Open 2019
The Chuncheon Korea Open is part of the national team’s preparation for the SEA Games in November

It’s a proud moment for the Philippine Taekwondo team after bagging 3 gold medals in the Chuncheon Korea Open International Taekwondo Championships held from July 4 to 10, 2019.

The trio of Aidaine Krisha Laxa, Jocel Lyn Ninobla, and Rinna Babanto delivered one of the 3 gold medals in the women’s poomsae event. 

Poomsae or patterns is a prearranged set of movements that gradually becomes more complex as you move on to the next grade. 

In an interview with Rappler, Aidaine, a grade 12 student from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) said they have been training nonstop since last year to prepare for a series of international competitions.

As the youngest in the group, she’s overwhelmed by their victory. 

Hindi po ako makapaniwala kasi it’s my first year in the senior category,” said Aidaine. “I’m very happy na makakauwi kami ng 3 gold medals para sa Philippines kasi mahirap po talaga yung labanan sa Korea Open. We were competing against the powerhouse country.” 

(I couldn’t believe it because it’s my first year in the senior category. I’m very happy that we won 3 gold medals for the Philippines because the competition in Korea Open is tight.)

Meanwhile, Jocel Lyn, who’s also from UST, shared that while she felt nervous during the competition, it also motivated her to do her best knowing that she’s up against world-class competitors.

“All of the competitors there are really good. It’s hard to be outstanding in a circle of excellent players. We’re up against the host country as well. But this is about being the best of the best,” she said.

HONOR AND GLORY. The national team was up against 13 other competitors in the female division. Photo from tkdphoto.com

Despite the pressure, both students were determined to pull off a perfect routine. 

Palagi ko rin po iniisip ‘yung sinasabi ng coach namin to just give our all in the performance and the medal will follow (I always remember what our coach says, to give our all in the performance and the medal will follow),” said Aidaine. 

They’re thankful for their supporters, especially their parents and coaches.

“Thank you so much to those who have always believed in me, not just during times of victories but also when I needed help and encouragement,” said Jocel. 

Kayo po ang inspirasyon ko to train harder and bring more honor and glory to our country (You  inspire me to train harder and bring more honor and glory to our country),” said Aidaine. 

Asked about their future plans, the champion jins said they are determined to win more medals for the country as they prepare for the SEA Games, which the Philippines will host in November this year.  

Congratulations to all the winners! – Rappler.com

#GoodRap is a weekly column that aims to feature lighthearted yet meaningful stories from here and around the globe. We hope this provides an oasis for anyone who wants to take a quick escape from the gloom and doom of the everyday world.

 

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