Filipinos can be world-class shooters - Romero

MANILA, Philippines - Skeet shooter Brian Rosario may have failed in his medal bid in the ongoing London Olympics but the perfect 25 he scored in stage three of the five-round competition speaks well of the caliber of the Filipino shooters when ranged against the world’s best.

“It’s already a great achievement on the part of Brian to score a perfect 25 and that also showed that our athletes can be at par with the best,” said shooting president Mikee Romero upon his arrival from London. “It’s not easy to score a 25 in the Olympics because there are so many factors to be considered.”

Rosario’s London trip, according to Romero, also turned out to be a historic one as he got a slice of history by becoming the first Filipino shooter to do the trick in the Games.

Rosario also showed his ability to rebound after a poor showing in Stage 2 where he scored just 19.

“He only showed that he has a big fighting heart, coming from that round (19) to score a perfect 25 is something you have to be proud of,” added Romero. “I’m really happy that our program in the PNSA is working steadily. But we’re not going to stop from there, we’ll do everything to improve the standards in shooting in the country.”

Romero is hoping that Rosario’s perfect 25 will be the spark the association needs to inspire other shooters whether they’re still trying out to become a member of the Philippine pool to submit themselves to proper training and all sacrifices.

“But we can’t do it alone, I hope we can have the support of other sectors especially the government. To be a world class shooter, one has to compete regularly in tough tournaments abroad,” said Romero, who added that Rosario spent his own money for his campaign abroad early this year.

Rosario ended up in tie a for 30th place in a field of 36, but for him it was a golden moment.

“I learned so many things from the London Games and I just hope I can do better in future international tournaments,” said the amiable businessman from Malabon who thanked the leadership of shooting, Philippine Olympic Committee and Philippine Sports Commission for their support.

Only 31, Rosario’s experience in the London Games will not only prepare him but also make him a better, sharper and deadlier shooter in the future – hopefully in the 2016 Rio de Janiero Games.