Dirty linen

Genetic predisposition won gold for Karl Eldrew Yulo in the floor exercise at the Artistic Gymnastics World Cup. It is the favorite event of his big brother Carlos Edriel. Pretty much same names, confusingly similar like a ground to declare a candidate nuisance.

On the floor, Karl and Carlos look and move almost identical with power, precision and artistry. Like twins in sync, except that Karl looks taller. Or is it Carlos who looks wider. Either way, the brothers make the country look bigger and taller in the company of gymnastics world best. Although the World Cup is inferior to the world championships where Carlos is multi-medalist, it is a senior level competition. For Karl, winning it is a giant step out of the juniors and out of the shadow of his double Olympic medalist brother.

The World Cup is a series of smaller, individual competitions throughout the year. Reportedly, some countries do not participate, or send second line gymnasts, if at all, for experience and exposure. These are powerhouse countries that afford to hold back their cards, especially the aces, brought out only at the right time and at the right place. Otherwise known as the Olympics and the worlds. Philippine sports has no cards up its sleeve, its enemies need not scout. Its shallow bench forces transparency, unlike in the government where unseen hands of corruption remain unaccounted for and unaccountable. Or deep fake in social media that make dumb netizens dumber.

Carlos and Karl excel by way of genetic monopoly, without reference to pending anti-dynasty bills in the legislature. Don’t expect too much, it is unlikely lawmakers would legislate against their class interest, otherwise they outlaw their continuity in public office and legislate themselves out of it, that one place millions would kill for billions in return.

With the younger Yulo, there is hope for continuity in gymnastics, hopefully excluding the animosity between Carlos and their family, the mother especially. Thankfully, it ended in public at least. No one would have ever known about their ugly family feud, until one or both of them shared its sordid details with the world. Family matters should be kept private, unless it involves public interest. Domestic violence is one, child abuse is another, especially rape, incest and molestation. But money matters, keep it a secret, unless stolen. The aggrieved party ought to know, much more if it were the taxpayers.