PHILIPPINE Sports Commission Chairman William Ramirez urged the national athletes competing in the Jakarta Palembang 18th Asian Games to give their best and serve as inspirations for the younger generation.
Ramirez told reporters on Wednesday that winning a medal is a product of their perseverance, and an all-out performance would be enough to bring joy and pride to Filipinos back home.
“As a former player and coach, I don’t want to pressure my athletes. They just have to remember what they did during practices and enjoy the competition,” Ramirez said.
“They also give inspiration to the young ones. If they perform well, the next generation will follow their footsteps,” he added.
Ramirez also noted that it is wrong to blame athletes or coaches if they fail.
“It’s a wrong notion that if you don’t win gold, it’s a failure. For as long as they give their best, it’s victory,” he said.
Ramirez will join the 272-strong Team Philippines in the opening ceremony on Saturday at the GBK Stadium in Jakarta. Last-minute addition Jordan Clarkson is the flag bearer.
The PSC poured P72 million for the participation of the national athletes in 35 sports.
Without any hesitation, Ramirez said weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz could win the gold medal.
“Diaz has a high probability of winning,” he said.