Phl coaches, gymnasts train in Japan

MANILA, Philippines -It’s never too late for the Philippines to pin its hopes on gymnastics.

For starters, the Philippine Gymnastics Association has sought the assistance of the Japan Gymnastics Association and the Zippy Action Foundation regarding the training of Filipino gymnasts and their coaches in Japan.

The PGA, headed by former Tourism Undersecretary Cynthia Carrion, has already sent four of its top gymnasts to Japan last month and another two by January for extensive training under a world-class environment.

Those who went to Japan last October were Fortunato Abad, Reyland Capella, Marvin Basa and Caloy Yulo. In January, it will be Jag Timbang and Yulo who will visit Japan.

The partnership between the Philippines and Japan was formally launched yesterday during a press conference at the Philippine Sports Commission administrative building.

The Filipino gymnasts have yet to score in the international arena since Roel Ramirez won the gold in men’s vault of the 2005 SEA Games in Manila, and Brydon Sy took the bronze in the men’s parallel bar in 2007 in Thailand.

The tie-up with the Japanese could be the answer. But it won’t happen overnight.

“It will take time. They have to strive and train for a long time before they win the medals,” said Iketani Yukio, silver medalist during the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. He also has three Olympic bronze medals under his name – two of them in 1988 in Seoul.

“For the Philippines to win medals, it is important to get all the information from countries that are tops in gymnastics. You need more information in coaching and training,” said Yukio, who showed mediamen his Olympic medals during the press conference.

Takashi Kobayashi, coaching director of the Japanese Olympic Committee, said even the Japanese seek the expertise of other powerhouse countries like Russia.  And in return, they also share what they learn to other Asian countries.

Japan won a gold and two silvers during the 2012 London Olympics – courtesy of Kohei Uchimura in the men’s individual all-around, its team all-around and Uchimura in the floor exercise.    – Abac Cordero