The Philippines’ first ever Olympic Gold Medalist, Hidilyn Diaz, met with the members of the Fil-Am Press Club of New York last November 13, 2022. She will be training in Atlanta, Georgia for two weeks before proceeding to Bogota for a world qualifier.
“I have always worked hard to achieve this feat and my main purpose is to give inspiration to young people to pursue their dreams. She recalled that she began to train using improvised “ipil ipil” trunk as weights, Later on she used cement barbels that are commonly used in lieu of the real thing. “I made a promise that I will provide “real” training materials for the next generation of weightlifters in the country if given the chance. I would definitely give them the opportunity to fulfill their dream! she enthused during the interview. She has recently donated training gears for several organizations recently.
Hidilyn’s coach and husband, Julius Naranjo was with her during the event. He discussed Hidilyn’s preparations for the next Olympics.
It is quite interesting for me that she broke rthe glass ceiling coming from a country where women walk three steps behind men. Her victory truly shows the strength and determination of the Filipina! Women have evolved to become leaders and achievers in nation building. Remember the time when we used to send our men abroad? Times have changed…the feminization of our overseas Filipino workers have given rise to a multitude of strong and empowered women! Hidilyn is a perfect example of an athlete not being prioritized because of gender bias. I guess she proved everyone wrong!
She is currently raising funds to make her Paris bid in 2024.
PRIDE & PULCHRITUDE 