The Good Balita

John Robert Celski, a young Filipino-American gave the Philippines another reason to cheer about when he won the bronze medal in the 1,500-meter short-track speed skating event of the Vancouver Winter Olympics.

While he’s representing the United States in the event, JR as he is fondly called by friends, would like to spread the word that he’s proud to have a Filipino blood.

Celski born in Monterey, California is the youngest of three brothers. His father, Robert Celski served in the U.S. Army and his mom Sue is a full-blooded Filipina who hails from Isabela.

“I would love for people to know that I am Filipino. I am very proud to be Filipino. My mother is full blooded Filipino which makes me half,” Celski said. “Ever since I was a little kid I have been around the Filipino culture as most of my friends are Filipinos.”

Celski, who boasts of a Philippine flag tattoo on his chest, said he’s great fan of Pinoy dishes like sinigang, lechon, and Longganisa, and of course, pancit, lumpia, and adobo.

His third-placed finish was considered a great comeback considering the horrifying accident he figured in five months ago.

Celski endured a six-inch wide, two-inch deep cut on his thigh after his blades sliced through it following a full-speed crash in a US Trials.

J.R. who started to skate at age three was an ace at in-line skating. His speed and tactics earned him many plaudits in the youth in-line circuit.

He earned a slot in the US team and in the Games by snaring two gold, one silver and two bronze medals last year at the World Championships in Austria.

Only on his first stint in the Games, Celski will try to nail a gold medal in the 5,000m relay on February 26.

 

Related posts:

1. Pinay American skater excels in Vancouver Olympics
2. Atilano wins Asian Grand Prix Bronze in India
3. Young RP triathlete wins bronze in HK tourney
4. RP hosts World Pyro Olympics Championships
5. RP Smart Gilas wins bronze in Dubai International

 

 

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