MANILA, Philippines — Mabigat man sa kanyang kalooban ay tinanggap ni Philippine rowing association president Patrick Gregorio ang biglaang pagreretiro ni national lady rower Melcah Jen Caballero.
Sinabi ng Southeast Asian Games double gold medalists na pagtutuunan niya ng pansin ang kanyang pangarap na maging isang military officer.
“I just want to let you know that your skills and talent are well recognized and appreciated here,” ani Gregorio kay Caballero.
Sinagwan ni Caballero ang mga gold medal sa women’s lightweight single sculls at lightweight double sculls event katambal si Joanie Delgaco noong 2019 SEA Games na pinamahalaan at pinagharian ng Pilipinas.
Miyembro rin si Caballero ng rowing team na sumabak sa nakaraang Asia Oceania Qualification Tournament noong Mayo para sa Tokyo Olympics,
Sinabi ni Gregorio na bukas pa rin ang pintuan ng rowing association sakaling magbago ang isip ni Caballero.
“If in any way you change your mind, the whole team is willing to welcome you back,” ani Gregorio. “Please let us know as soon as possible so we can prepare for the upcoming SEA Games and Asian Games next year.”
Handa naman si Caballero na tumulong sa national team kung hihingin ang kanyang suporta.
“Please do know that I will gladly be of assistance in any way that I could and is open to any future opportunities to give back to the association,” ani Caballero.