By: Madarang, Lei Ann
Heather White and Jamesray Mishael Ajido clinched bronze medals last February 27, 2024 at the 11th Asian Age Group Championships held at the New Clark City Aquatics Center in Capas, Tarlac. White dominated the Girls 15-17 100-meter Butterfly event, while Ajido showcased his talent in the Boys 12-14 50-meter Freestyle category.
At the Batang Pinoy National Championships held from December 17 to 22 at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila last year, White and Ajido both stood out. White secured an impressive seven gold medals in Parañaque City, a testament to the Philippine Sports Commission’s main grassroots initiative. Ajido, representing Mandaluyong City, earned the title of “most decorated athlete” in his class.
“I am proud that the Philippines finally made it to the medal mark in this tournament. Congratulations to all our national athletes, this kind of tournament is a great instrument to further improve in the sport,” said Richard Bachmann, the Philippine Sports Commission Chairman.
To show their support to the 44 Filipino tankers competing, Chairman Bachmann and Commissioner Matthew ‘Fritz’ Gaston attended the tournament’s third day.
The amenities of the Aquatics Center as well as the training areas for swimming and diving participants was also inspected by Bachmann. The Philippine Aquatics, Inc. who enabled the country to be capable of handling such an enormous task was praised by the head of the PSC.
The local and international aquatics community was invited by the PSC officials to come and watch the masterpiece brought out by the best young Asian swimmers as competitions in the 11th AAGC, which will be done on March 9, and anticipated to spark even more after being recognized as a continental qualifying match for the July Olympics in Paris.
Philippine Aquatics Inc Secretary-general Rep. Eric Buhain, Chief Operating Officer Dave Carter, and Executive Director Chito Rivera welcomed Bachmann and Gaston.
