Filipina athletes made their presence felt at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, with standout performances from Margarita Ochoa and Annie Ramirez clinching gold medals in women’s jiu-jitsu, contributing to the Philippines’ rising medal tally. Meanwhile, the men’s basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, is aiming for history as they battle in their first finals appearance in over three decades.
From battling physical adversities to fighting off tough competition, these athletes have shown incredible resolve and skill. Their successes serve as a source of immense pride for Filipinos everywhere. Read on to dive into their inspiring journeys and find out how they’re leaving an indelible mark on this year’s Asian Games.
Margarita Ochoa Fights Through Adversity for Gold
Filipina jiu-jitsu sensation Margarita Ochoa secured the second gold medal for the Philippines at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. Ochoa pulled off a stunning victory over world champion Balqees Abdulla from the UAE in the women’s -48kg final on Thursday, October 5.
Battling fever and a knee injury, Ochoa proved her resilience. She had come to Hangzhou under the weather and faced further physical challenges, including a hip injury. Yet she persevered, defeating contenders from Mongolia and Kazakhstan before her golden triumph over Abdulla.
Her emotional victory elevated the Philippines’ medal count, and Ochoa didn’t hesitate to dedicate her win to her homeland. “This one’s for our country. My struggles made this victory even sweeter,” she stated.
Battling a fever and pain from her injuries, Meggie Ochoa persevered and clinched the 2nd Gold for the Philippines at the #AsianGames in China @OlympicPHI https://t.co/NYXYQ7ZTSE
— GoodNewsPilipinas.com (@GoodNewsPinas_) October 6, 2023
Annie Ramirez Adds Another Feather to Her Cap
Not to be outdone, Annie Ramirez contributed another gold for the Philippines in women’s -57kg jiu-jitsu. She showcased her skills with a 2-0 win over Kazakhstan’s Galina Duvanova on Friday, October 6, capping an unbeaten run that included victories against athletes from Vietnam, Singapore, and the UAE.
Ramirez, already a Southeast Asian Games three-time champion, expressed her delight a day after her compatriot Ochoa clinched a gold medal. Her victory marked the Philippines’ third gold medal in the ongoing Asian Games after pole vaulter EJ Obiena secured the first gold victory on Monday.
Jiu-jitsu champion Annie Ramirez secures the Philippines' 3rd Gold Medal at the #AsianGames @19thAGofficial https://t.co/ed3oc1SKiN
— GoodNewsPilipinas.com (@GoodNewsPinas_) October 6, 2023
Gilas Pilipinas Eyes Historic Win
For the first time in over 30 years, the Philippines men’s basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, has made it to the Asian Games finals. The team eked out a one-point win (77-76) against China, thanks to a last-minute three-pointer from Justin Brownlee. The victory on October 4 follows the Philippines’ landmark World Cup victory over the Chinese team.
Initially trailing by as many as 20 points, the Gilas mounted an exhilarating comeback. Despite facing numerous challenges, including fouls and turnovers, the team turned the tide in the final seconds, clinching a spot in the final against Jordan.
Brownlee was the star performer with 33 points, while Scottie Thomson chipped in with 13 points and three assists. The team is now set to face off against Jordan in the grand finale on Friday, October 6 at 8 p.m.
Gilas Pilipinas Men are battling for Gold against Jordan in the #AsianGames basketball finals tonight at 8 PM, a hard-fought historic berth after winning against home team China last Wednesday @AsianGamesOCA https://t.co/reeHmPPQY1
— GoodNewsPilipinas.com (@GoodNewsPinas_) October 6, 2023
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