In the bustling city of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the 2023 World Combat Games witnessed remarkable performances from athletes worldwide. Among the shining stars of this international stage were Cordillera athletes who represented the Philippines with honor and distinction.
Thornton Sayan's Exceptional Journey
The spotlight first fell on Thornton Sayan, a wushu specialist hailing from the Cordillera region. Sayan clinched a bronze medal in the men's taolunanquan category, displaying skill and determination that left spectators in awe. In addition to this achievement, he secured a fifth-place finish in the nangun event, amassing a total score of 19.41 points.
Sayan's journey to glory didn't begin in Riyadh. He had previously earned a bronze medal in the taijiquan and taijijian events at the 19th Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China.
Agatha Wong and Clemente Tabugara Jr. Join the Triumph
The Cordillera athletes were not alone in their quest for excellence. Agatha Wong, another Filipino wushu talent, showcased her remarkable skills by claiming a silver medal in the women's taolu taijiquan and taijijian events. Her grace and precision in the arena earned her a well-deserved place on the podium.
Clemente Tabugara Jr., also from the Cordillera region, added to the Filipino triumph by winning a silver medal in the fiercely competitive men's 65-kilogram sanda event. In the finals, he displayed immense determination, facing off against Egypt's Siefeldin Elsayed, ultimately securing second place.
Muaythai Athletes Triumph
But the story doesn't end there. In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Muaythai athletes also emerged victorious at the 2023 World Combat Games, adding to the Philippines' growing list of achievements.
In the "Mixed Mai Muay" category, the dynamic duo of Ariel Lampacan and his partner Phillip Delarmino clinched a well-deserved silver medal. Their performances in the ring showcased not only their individual prowess but also their ability to work in harmony as a team. The silver medal was a testament to their relentless training and unwavering dedication to their craft.
Meanwhile, in the "Women's Wai Kru" category, Islay Bomogao exhibited exceptional talent and grace. Her captivating performance earned her a silver medal, captivating the audience and judges alike. Islay's achievement highlighted her precision and deep-rooted commitment to mastering the art of Muaythai.
These Muaythai athletes have not only made their country proud but have also inspired the next generation of fighters. Their remarkable performances in Riyadh were a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and the indomitable spirit of Filipino athletes.
A Moment of National Pride
The achievements of these Cordillera athletes were met with applause and pride from their fellow countrymen. Abraham Tolentino, President of the Philippine Olympic Committee, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the team. He emphasized the historical significance of their multiple medals, making this a moment of national pride.
Tolentino had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable performances of these athletes during the 2023 World Combat Games, which took place from October 20 to 30 at the King Saud University Stadium in Riyadh. Their accomplishments served as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a source of collective pride for the entire nation.
The Global Stage of the World Combat Games
The World Combat Games, a spectacular international multi-sport event, served as the arena where dreams were realized and excellence was celebrated. This event brought together combat sports and martial arts from every corner of the world, embodying the spirit of unity and competition.
Founded with the goal of introducing a diverse range of martial arts and combative sports to a global audience, the World Combat Games provided a platform for athletes to showcase their remarkable talents. This prestigious event is officially recognized by the International Olympic Committee, emphasizing its significance on the world stage.
The remarkable journey of Thornton Sayan, Jones Llabres Inso, Agatha Wong, Clemente Tabugara Jr., Ariel Lampacan and his partner Phillip Delarmino, and Islay Bomogao, along with the triumphant Filipino athletes at the 2023 World Combat Games, is a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of Filipino athletes. Their remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring martial artists and a source of immense pride for the Cordillera region and the entire Philippines on the grand stage of the World Combat Games.
