Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Pacquiao faces Cotto in MGM Grand Las Vegas match
In a few hours, on Saturday, November 14, 2009, pound for pound best prizefighter Manny Pacquiao faces welterweight champ Miguel Cotto in a boxing match at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. Fans have been waiting for this bout---the most exciting of the year (HBO, 9 PM, E.T.)
Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao
49 (37) – 3 – 2
Height: 5′6″ Reach: 67″
Current Pound for Pound Champion
Last 5 fights: 5-0 with 3 knockouts against Ricky Hatton, Oscar De La Hoya, Juan Manuel Marquez, David Diaz and Marco Antonio Barrera, spanning four weight classes from super featherweight to welterweight
Miguel Cotto
34 (27) – 1
Height: 5′7″ Reach: 67″
Current WBO Welterweight Champion
Last 5 fights: 4-1 with 2 knockouts against Joshua Clottey, Michael Jennings Alfonso Gomez and Shane Mosley with the defeat coming against Antonio Margarito.
Who will prevail in this fight? Better known and popular Filipino Manny Pacquaio, 29, boasts of his speed. Miguel Cotto, 29. the pride of Puerto Rico is bigger than Manny on the boxing platform--- even if Miguel has to cut his weight down to 145 lbs.
The two professional fighters have the sports world in attention. They need to bring their best for the fans to know if their prediction of who will win is right. Source: lasvegasenews.com (Photo Credit: AFP/ Getty Images/ Miller, E.) =0=
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Phelps helps 400m relay team for a world-record win
In a rematch between Olympic swimming icon Michael Phelps and Serbia’s Milorad Cavic, the former thrust himself to the last seconds to keep his title as the fastest in 100 m butterfly category. Phelps won, bringing him his 4th gold.
But on Sunday, August 2, 2009, in the World Swimming Championship in Rome, Italy, Phelps was part of the US relay team to bag his 5th gold medal, helping his group in 400-meter medley relay to win the 43rd world record in the championship.
Overall, not as good as his 8 gold medal sweep in the unforgettable Beijing Olympics, Phelps' spectacular showing ends the meet with two individual gold, one silver medal (200 freestyle) and three relay gold medals. He still remains the greatest in swimming history. (Photo Credit: D. Daniel) =0=
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Filipinos take risk in allowing Pacquiao to go home early
"Better safe than sorry."
"A pound of prevention is greater than an ounce of cure."
This is in essence what the Department and Health (DOH) and World Health Organization (WHO) are telling the country when they advice Manny Pacquiao to postpone his triumphal return to Manila after his boxing victory in Las Vegas, Nevada.
But it appears, some people can’t be dissuaded until something horrible happens. If the Philippines need the proactive control against the H1N1 virus, it must be at this stage when no confirmed case has reached the country. But there are government leaders who don't believe so. The logistics of tackling a potential epidemic is hard and as a nation, Filipinos must cooperate.
I believe the risk of Pacquiao and the 50 congressmen who watched the boxing match in United States is small, but it’s there. There are more than 30 states affected by the swine flu. No one can quantify the exact chance that those who traveled in these places will bring the virus into the country. And no one is sure how the country will cope if the disease takes root among the people
Viruses are very tricky and we must respect them as they are. Health authorities are still on the process of learning about H1N1 flu which has the potential to cause widespread illness, overtax the ability of the health care workers to respond, dampen business, and cause economic hardship.
It’s the duty of the Department of Health (DOH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to inform Filipinos of the dangers of the swine infection. But it is the Filipino citizens' responsibility to take the needed precautions. This is not the time to joke around. The threat of the swine infection must be treated as a health issue and not as a political matter.
Being a pathologist, I believe keeping Pacquiao, his entourage, and the 50 congressmen out of the country for just a few more days and allow the viral incubation period to elapse is the best. Health and government authorities must not compromise. They have the power to impose mandatory isolation on these possible carriers to safeguard the health the population. So far, DOH looks after at least 3 people in the country who may harbor the disease.
In the excitement of having Manny come home, Filipinos must understand. Erring on the side of caution has strong merits. Diseases don’t discriminate whether someone is a hot-shot victorious boxer or an influential rich congressman who can afford a ringside ticket in Las Vegas. Contagion is something that everyone must take seriously. (Photo Credit: Lalechededios) =0=
RELATED BLOGS: "Wasteful RP Congress holiday after 50 representatives watched the Pacquiao-Hatton boxing match" Posted by mesiamd at 5/06/2009; "Quarantine of 3 possible Swine flu sufferers in Cebu" Posted by mesiamd at 5/06/2009; "May 2, 2009: Update of swine influenza; Hongkong reports its first case" Posted by mesiamd at 5/02/2009; “The march of the pig virus “ Posted by mesiamd at 4/28/2009; “Mexico’s new swine-avian-human flu worries health experts of global pandemic “ Posted by mesiamd at 4/25/2009
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Wasteful RP Congress holiday after 50 representatives watched the Pacquiao-Hatton boxing match
There is something obscenely wrong each time Manny Pacquiao comes to Las Vegas, Nevada to fight in the boxing arena. Last Saturday, just like his fight against Oscar de la Hoya, the match between him and Englishman Ricky Hatton was attended by 50 Philippine congressmen even if it lasted only for 3 minutes.
The next day in Manila, the House of Representative had only 131 congressmen out 263 who reported for work. The number of lawmakers was too small to meet the quorum needed so they could work on the job.
“No matter how the alibis are turned inside and out among the congressmen, they would be in a bind in justifying to their constituents the need for going to Las Vegas while there is a lot of job to do at Congress.” ----Daily Tribune (05/06/09)
Many Filipinos are silent about their congressmen’s disruptive travels, but it is clear these elected officials are immaturely abusive. It’s so easy to see how wasteful and extravagant they are each time they go abroad to watch and be seen with RP’s most influential sports hero. Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales think going abroad to watch Pacquiao is a waste of money.
Not to mention airfare and hotel accommodation, a good seat close to the boxing rimg runs in the thousands of dollars, but the congressmen don’t mind of the expense. They like to think money is easy to find. Not one among the 20% of the lower house seems to care that the flu pandemic is at their door.
In spite of the swine flu scare, the lawmakers go to see boxing, risking their health and that of their people when they come home. It’s unlikely they will follow quarantine rules as prescribed by the health authorities. Photo Credit: Congress of the Philippines) =0=
RELATED BLOGS: “Manny Pacquiao: RP’s legendary boxer and what people say about him” Posted by mesiamd at 5/04/2009; "Pacquiao KOs Hatton in 2 Rounds" Posted by upibalonbicol at 5/03/2009; "50 Congressmen and the harm they do for watching Pacquiao in Nevada when the swine epidemic rages" Posted by mesiamd at 5/02/2009; "Pacquiao among Time Magazine’s most influential people of 2009" Posted by mesiamd at 5/01/2009; "Philippine Congress attendance drops to 100 out of 263 as Pacquiao-Hatton match draws near" Posted by mesiamd at 5/01/2009
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Pacquiao unveils his People Champ’s Party
Filipinos displayed almost total unanimity in support for Manny Pacquiao during his boxing bout with Ricky Hatton. The entire nation was ecstatic to watch the astounding victory that carved Manny’s name among the greatest boxers of the world. As his countrymen prepared for a hero’s welcome in Manila, a brewing firestorm of controversy had started.
Drowning in admiration and accolades, Manny is reported to have formed the People Champ’s movement, a political party that will enable him to come back to politics after his defeat in the 2007 election. A petition to recognize the party which he heads as president has been filed with the Commission on Elections (Comelec)----probably in preparation for him to seek a local elective post in General Santos City or run for congressman in Sarangani Province in Mindanao.
Early reactions to Pacquiao’s political move are mixed. Surely, no one can prevent him from seeking an elective government post, but a huge number of his fans are concerned. There are those who are disappointed. With the corrupting influence of many politicians who use the boxing champion’s popularity for their political gain, his admirers believe he can better serve the country as an outstanding boxer.
Akbayan party-list Rep. Risa Hontiveros-Baraquel is probably right in saying, “Pacman is idolized by millions of Filipinos, especially our youth, because of his strength and endurance. Many would be disillusioned if he taints his real power—the unique capacity to unite the people—by entering politics.” ----PDI (05/06/09, Alave, KL) (Photo Credit: Bret) =0=
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Manny Pacquiao: RP’s legendary boxer and what people say about him
In a stunning knock-out victory by the Filipino Manny Pacquaio over British Ricky Hatton, the world has seen the brilliance of a boxer. The fight was too short to last for barely 3 minutes . In the second round it was over. A killer punch from Manny put Ricky to sleep.
“I’m surprised the fight was so easy,” says Manny (49-3-2,37 knockouts) of the fight which earned him a hefty $2 million and Hatton (45-2) $8 million. He quickly destroyed Ricky with a left hook punch in a match on Saturday which won him the International Boxing Organization's (IBO) junior welterweight title.
The adrenaline surge was high not only for Manny, but among fans who watched the game. In the Philippines, during the boxing telecast from Las Vegas, Nevada, three of his fans died of heart attack.
Never forgetting to credit God for his winnings, Manny is history’s sole boxer to clinch six world titles in different divisions including the flyweight, junior featherweight, featherweight, junior lightweight, lightweight and the junior welterweight. What ensued are accolades that the sports hero rightfully deserves:
“Magaling! Magaling ang pinakita ng champion natin. Talagang overwhelming [ang] performance niya. Kanina pa kami dito pero talagang alam namin mananalo talaga si Manny,” said one of Pacquiao.----ABS-CBN News (05/04/09)
“Manny Pacquiao beat Ricky Hatton via technical knockout in the second round Saturday (Sunday in Manila) in Las Vegas, Nevada, snatching the light welterweight crown and carving his name as one of the legends in boxing history.” AFP/ Inquirer Sports (05/03/09,
“There is only one Manny Pacquiao…. Ever since that disappointing loss to Morales, Pacquiao has made a transformation that has turned him into a superstar and has old-school boxing experts talking of him as an all-time great.”----Yahoo.News.com Sports (05/02/09, Iole, K.)
“Fans packed town halls, sports complexes and other public places across the nation -- some lining up as early as daybreak to get seats in front of wide screen televisions broadcasting the fight live from Las Vegas, in the United States. In Manila, authorities had to turn away hundreds for fear of a stampede.” Voice of America News.com (05/03/09, Bayron, H)
“Unbelievable. Manny just destroyed him. Spectacular performance. Freddie Roach called it. The man knows his stuff. This crowd is a mix of excitement and stunned silence. What a victory for Pacquiao.”---Sports Illustrated.com (05/02/09, Mannix, C)
“The greatest fighter ever!” ---Philstar (05/04/09, Cordero A)
“Coming off an overwhelming win against Oscar De La Hoya, Pacquiao was even better against Hatton, knocking him down two times in the first round before stopping him with a left hand that dropped Hatton for good in the 140-pound title bout.”---New York Times/ AP (05/03/09)
“I join the whole nation in thanking Manny for the glory he is bringing to our country,” said South Cotabato Rep. Darlene Custodio who beat Pacquiao in the 2007 elections. ---Philstar (05/04/09/Romero, P)
“Pacquiao's best on this night quickly quieted a boisterous crowd of 16,262 at the MGM Grand arena, many of them who came over from England to sing and chant Hatton's praises. They didn't even get a chance to warm up, though, before Hatton was on the canvas for the first time of the night.+----CBS5.com (05/03/09,)
“Manny is unbelievable. He made me look good. He listens, and he’s getting better all the time.”---- Freddie Roach, Pacquiao’s Boxing Coach. Manila Times / AFP Xinhua (05/04/09, Medina, J)
“You're going to be the greatest fighter who ever lived," Bob Arum, Boxing Promoter Honolulu Advertiser.com/ AP (05/03/09 Dalhlberg, T)
“Inspirasyon ka namin, Manny. Napakasarap ng pakiramdam na ang tinatalo nating mga Pinoy ay malalaking lahi na tulad ni Hatton. Tama ka, kaya natin umangat. Puwede rin tayong tingalain,” naiiyak namang pahayag ni Augusto Sandoval, construction worker/driver sa Bahrain, na ang tinutukoy ay ang awiting “Pilipino ang lahi ko” na kinanta mismo ni Pacquiao at siyang pinatutugtog habang paakyat sa arena ang Pambansang Kamao.---Abante (05/04/09, Miranda, R, Mantining, D, Marfil, R) (Photo Credits: AFP/ GettyImages/ Bello A; Hong, JaeC; Philstar)
RELATED BLOGS: "Pacquiao KOs Hatton in 2 Rounds" Posted by upibalonbicol at 5/03/2009; "50 Congressmen and the harm they do for watching Pacquiao in Nevada when the swine epidemic rages" Posted by mesiamd at 5/02/2009; "Pacquiao among Time Magazine’s most influential people of 2009" Posted by mesiamd at 5/01/2009; "Philippine Congress attendance drops to 100 out of 263 as Pacquiao-Hatton match draws near" Posted by mesiamd at 5/01/2009
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50 Congressmen and the harm they do for watching Pacquiao in Nevada when the swine epidemic rages
It’s as if House Speaker Prospero C. Nograles and the 50 representatives of the Philippine Congress are kids. As excited as immature people, they couldn’t be dissuaded from missing the Pacquaio-Hatton fight in Las Vegas, Nevada in spite of the seriousness of the swine flu epidemic.
Perhaps they want to show they have “personal money” to spend abroad unlike the cash-strapped regular Filipinos. The congressmen are determined to risk their health and that of the nation just to satisfy a fancy to be where the action is. Surprisingly, only few Filipinos air their disappointment versus the wasteful travel to Las Vegas.
Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales was right in expressing his frustration of having leaders in congress spend big money to travel with no apparent benefit to the Filipinos. As the cardinal said, the presence of congressmen close to the boxing ring will not change the outcome of the match.
The Department of Health (DOH) is trying to safeguard the country of the deadly influenza infection and the congressmen are uncooperative. They show again the lack of responsibility that many people associate with politicians. Seeing the congressmen huddled in the sports crowd that potentially harbors the pig virus is despicable. The P90 miliion the DOH has prepared to spend in case influenza reaches the Philippines is hardly enough for the country’s preparedness.
“Rosales believes that during this time of global economic crisis, it was a “waste of money” to spend on a boxing match, even if it is one of the most anticipated sport events of the year.”----Philstar (05//02/09, Edheminada, P)
Little can be said about these short-sighted congressmen who are insensitive to the needs of their constituents. At the very least, they don’t even know how to set a good example. For insisting on their travel, they need to be quarantined for at least 10 days ----to watch for signs of the H1N1 flu infection---an unnecessary move if they heed to forgo with non-essential trips abroad. (Photo Credit: Sheltercrow)=0=
RELATED BLOG: "Philippine Congress attendance drops to 100 out of 263 as Pacquiao-Hatton match draws near" Posted by mesiamd at 5/01/2009
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Pacquiao among Time Magazine’s most influential people of 2009
At the eve of this fight with British boxing professional Ricky Hatton in Las Vegas, Manny Pacquiao, Philippine’s phenomenal boxing super-star is celebrated among TIME magazine’s 2009 most influential heroes and icons. “Pound for pound, Manny Pacquiao is the best boxer in the world. But even more important than holding that distinction, Manny has connected with the people of his home country, the Philippines, to the point where he's almost like a god. The people have rallied behind him and feel like they're a part of him, because they can see his talent, his dedication, his grace and his class.”---Time (04/30/09, Lennox,L)
The only Filipino in the list, Manny ranks 22nd among celebrities and personalities like Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, US president Barack Obama, conservative radio talk show broadcaster Rush Limbaugh, actor Brad Pitt, Airline pilot Chesley Sullenberger, TV host Oprah Winfrey, and religious leader Rick Warren.
“Only two other athletes landed in the Time 100, top Spanish netter Rafael Nadal (60th) and Olympic hero swimmer Michael Phelps (72nd). Outside the 100 were baseball star Alex Rodriguez and golf great Tiger Woods, who wound up 106th and 134th, respectively.”---GMA.TV. News (04/28/09)
It’s certainly a cause of joy for the multitude of Filipinos who need a boost of hope in the midst of uncertainty and hardship. Pacquiao, aka Pacman, the once unknown 30 year-old from Mindanao, catapulted himself in sports with his expertise and winnings in international boxing. His humble beginnings, generosity, and astounding talent have earned him respect and admiration from his countrymen and his fans worldwide. (Photo Credit: Manresa Class of 1983) =0=
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Philippine Congress attendance drops to 100 out of 263 as Pacquiao-Hatton match draws near
There is a reason to be proud of super boxing hero Manny Pacquaio. That’s why in spite of the money crunch brought by the recession, at least 50 Filipino congressmen will fly to Las Vegas to watch the sensational boxing battle between Pacquiao and Britisher Ricky Hatton on Saturday, May 2, 2009 (Philippine time.)
“I have never missed his fight. He is the pride of Mindanao and I am part of his team. I've never used government funds to watch all his previous fights, including now.”----House Speaker Nograles ABS-CBN )04/30/09)
It must really be exciting to be on the ringside to see Philippines’ fighter extraordinaire who inspires almost everybody fight in the MGM arena. But one wonders if the trip by the members of the House of Representative to the United States is worth their “personal money” which has a good chance of mixing with “public money.”
A trip abroad is expensive and the salary of these congressmen isn’t that much compared to the dollar earners. Besides they have expenses that spill as money paid for by the government. In a climate of corruption, they need to be honest. The public knows they are not rich and the people they serve are poor.
The attendance in the House or Representatives as of Wednesday dropped 62% with only 100 out of 263 members. Obviously showing lack of responsibility, no legislation or discussion helpful the nation could proceed. The charter change (Cha-cha) initiative by the congressmen were put on hold to give way to Pacquaio. Embarrassing, but true!
A Pacquiao-Hatton encounter, no matter how exciting, must not take precedence on duty at work. Abandoning the congress to watch a boxing match doesn't give a good signal. Those who take public service seriously take this as a black eye on the performance of congressmen, but almost almost no one protests.
The congressmen are even oblivious of the pig flu epidemic making rounds in America. With the swine virus on its way to become a full-blown pandemic, the congressmen should be taking the risk of travel seriously. Some members of the Obama entourage who went to Mexico last week manifested flu-like symptoms. A Mexican who shook Obama's hand reportedly died of the flu. As advised by health authorities, one should avoid non-essential trips these days, especially in the epicenter of the epidemic to avoid getting sick and transmitting the disease.
Pacquiao also worries of catching influenza. He is good to see in a giant screen, but the 50 congressmen can’t be dissuaded from the ringside. The Las Vegas boxing arena where a mix of Mexican and Americans will is just the right place for contagion to lurk and spread in the crowd. (Photo Credit: Philippine Affairs/ Congress of the Philippines)=0=
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Lance Armstrong fractures a collarbone in a cycling race in Spain
Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong joined Spain’s Vuelta of Castilla and Leon, a race held on March 22, 2009, but was tossed in a bike pile-up which caused him injury---- a fracture on right collar-bone. Falling from his bike about 12.5 miles from the first stage finish, the 37-year old cyclist was helped by an ambulance which brought him to the hospital.
"The collarbone is broken, and I have a little bit of road-rash abrasions," Armstrong said as he left Valladolid University Hospital. "I've never had this happen before; it's pretty painful. I feel really miserable."---Lance Armstrong. AP (03/24/409)
The clavicular bone fracture raises the question whether the champion will be well enough to compete in the Tour de France from July 4 to 26. The acclaimed cyclist and cancer survivor said he’ll need to go back to the United States to consult with his doctors. =0=
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Go dream and get an education
David Michael Bautista, known to the wrestling world as Batista has a good advice to Filipinos: Go dream and get an education. The message comes from the four-time world heavy weight wrestling champion who comes to Manila to promote the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) which can be viewed in a local cable Jack TV.Taking advantage of his popularity, the 6 feet 6 inches, 290 lbs. American wrestler of mixed Filipino and Greek parentage, shares some facets of his life to bring inspiration to young kids and his wrestling fans. Having lived a hard life in tough neighborhoods in USA before he grabbed a place in the sports limelight, 40 year-old Batista preaches the necessity of getting a good education---something he regretted not pursuing, but want others to have including his two children. (Photo Credit: Britt601)=0=
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Manny Pacquiao receives a doctorate degree
Southwestern University conferred a doctorate to outstanding boxer Manny Pacquiao for his excellence in sports. The honorary degree in humanities was given at the Grand Ballroom of the Cebu City Hotel to the most famous Filipino pugilist who is an inspiration to many Filipinos.(Photo Credit: Philstar/ Freeman) =0=
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Olympic swimming star Michael Phelps apologizes for smoking marijuana
Michael Phelps, most admired Olympic swimmer with 8 gold medals in the 2008 Beijing Games apologized for being caught smoking marijuana. The popular 23 year old with multi-million product endorsements on his sleeve had a picture by a British newspaper showing him inhaling pot. The incident allegedly occurred in a party at the University of South Carolina in November last year, prompting South Carolina’s sheriff’s office to investigate for criminal wrong-doing.
"I'm 23 years old, and despite the successes I have had in the pool, I acted in a youthful and inappropriate way, not in a manner that people have come to expect from me," he said. "For this, I am sorry. I promise my fans and the public -- it will not happen again."---CNN.com/crime (02/03/09)
Many said his quick apology was appropriate for damage control. In 2004, pleading guilty to driving while intoxicated (DUI,) Phelps was sentenced to 18 months probation for which he also apologized.
Role models like him run the danger of alienating fans and product sponsors if similar incidents occur in the future. The marijuana incident reveals the error-proneness of the young sports celebrity who supports the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, a group which aims to rid competitive sports of prohibited drugs. More infractions by personalities like Phelps make the public wonder if social decorum has been so compromised in the present generation. (Photo Credit Alexandre Battibugli) =0=
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Pacquiao wins over De la Hoya on a 9th round TKO
When I attended the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan, New York a few hours before Manny (Pacman) Pacquiao faced “golden boy” Oscar de la Hoya on the welter-weight boxing ring, Fr. Jose Marabe asked those present if they prayed for the Filipino fighter to win.
The hushed laughter in the packed gothic cathedral on December 6, 2008 seemed to confirm that many sought God's help for the most famous Filipino pugilist. The trust on Manny's winning was as high as the people's trust in God. Manny's fans knew the power of faith.
I too offered prayers for Manny to win. I wanted to have that good news for the country, something that most kababayans could relate to. After all, Manny is among the few Filipinos who captivates and inspires the nation. When he fights, Manila literally stops. His homegrown fans in the Philippines go wild watching the TV beamed from Las Vegas.When I arrived home from church, the game was already underway. It was Manny who was dominating the fight. De la Hoya seemed worn-out to match Manny's solid jabs. The famous 10-time world champ and 1992 Olympic veteran wobbled as he took Pacman's strikes.
By the 8th round, the Mexican-American boxer got his puffed eye which proved too cumbersome for him to go on. The befuddled De la Hoya soon lost the match on a technical knockout (TKO) after failing to answer the 9th round bell. It was a glorious moment for Pacquiao, a beaming instant for Filipinos. Manny said he felt early on that he would win. Riding high on adrenaline, he wanted to fight again when the pay is right, perhaps after some rest. He set a personal record by wrecking the stellar reputation of the famous De la Hoya.
Manny demonstrated to be the better boxer. Prayers did work for him. On his return to the Philippines its the same prayers (add praises and admiration) that await him.w He once more raised pride for his people. He is an excellent boxer--- better than the aspiring politician from Gen. San he wanted to be. (Photo Credits: AP/ Mark Terrill; AP/ Jamison, E; AP/ JaeChong; AP/ Jamison, E) =0=
RELATED BLOG: "A Postscript To Manny Pacquiao's Outstanding Wins" posted by mesiamd, Wednesday, 07 July 2004 11:54.
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Beacons of hope & exemplars of the soul’s triumph
, 
The pessimists in us are not happy about 15 Filipino athletes coming to the Beijing Olympic Games. They think it’s a waste of time, money and effort sending the delegation with a dismal chance of winning. Yet considering the support we have for sports, it’s a wonder that we have a contingent of brave competitors willing to sweat it out for the glory and edification of the country.
Like Laos, Kiribati, Uruguay, Myanmar, Liechtenstein, Yemen, Zambia, and many others, Philippines went home wanting of an Olympic medal. But for sure all these countries are richer in experience and hope. To be part of a world where cultural differences is transformed into a gesture of friendly competitiveness is an accomplishment by itself.
To be the best in the field isn't everything. By our participation in the games, we affirm the universal aspiration for excellence and our desire to connect with people. By cooperating with China’s hosting of a tantalizing “coming out” party which wowed the world, we bouy up cooperation and friendship among nations. We demonstrate that winning and losing are life-realities that all of us must contend with.
We salute the cash-strapped people of Zimbabwe whose hyperinflation and economic hardships didn’t deter their athletes to bring home 4 medals. We admire Malaysia and the small West African country of Togo which brought a silver and bronze respectively.
Turbulent Georgia, which nurses wounds from separatist South Ossetia and suffers border conflict with neighbor Russia, won 6 medals. Moslem Iran, threatening Israel and the world with its nuclear program basked in victory with two well-earned medals. Our southern Asian partner Indonesia celebrates success from 5 impressive wins, one of them gold in badminton.
Amidst the dominance and superiority of the United States with 110 medals (eclipsing China in total number but not in the count for gold,) the Middle Eastern nation of Bahrain with barely a million people produced for the first time a gold medal winner in track in field. Jamaica, a Carribean country of 2.5 million brought home a spectacular win of 11 medals, 6 of them gold. War-torn Afghanistan with a population less than half of the Philippines, won a taekwondo bronze in the 17-day grueling competition.
With 85 million of us, how come we’re lagging behind these countries? How come winning an Olympic medal seems to be so unreal--- a pipe dream for us? The answer probably lies in our attitude, endurance, and value judgment. We need to trust ourselves more. We must support and appreciate the sportsmanship of our athletes. We must believe in our capacity to win, stirring us to fight as a team and as an individual for our own self-fulfillment and survival.
The aspiration of humanity to excel and be part of a cause greater than its own is part of the Olympic tradition. In a time when we doubt ourselves if we can go beyond what others expect of us, our athletes stand as beacons of hope and exemplars of our soul’s triumph. Even if our athletes didn’t win, in the field of dreams, their hearts shine as bright as the torch and the gold of the Olympics.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FILIPINO OLYMPIC ATHLETES!
Eric Ang---Shooting; Ryan Paolo Arabejo---Swimming;
Daniel Coakley---Swimming; Henry Dagmil---Track & Field; Hidilyn Diaz----Weightlifting; Rexel Ryan Fabriga---Diving; Tshomlee Go---Taekwondo; Mark Javier---Archery; Miguel Molina---Swimming; Sheila Mae Perez---Diving; Mary Antoinette Rivero---Taekwondo;
Christel Simms---Swimming; Harry Tanamor---Boxing;
Marestella Torres---Track & Field; JB Walsh---Swimming. (PhotoCredits: AFP/NicolasAsfouri; Reuters/OlegPopov; Reuters/MikeBlake)=0=
The pessimists in us are not happy about 15 Filipino athletes coming to the Beijing Olympic Games. They think it’s a waste of time, money and effort sending the delegation with a dismal chance of winning. Yet considering the support we have for sports, it’s a wonder that we have a contingent of brave competitors willing to sweat it out for the glory and edification of the country.
Like Laos, Kiribati, Uruguay, Myanmar, Liechtenstein, Yemen, Zambia, and many others, Philippines went home wanting of an Olympic medal. But for sure all these countries are richer in experience and hope. To be part of a world where cultural differences is transformed into a gesture of friendly competitiveness is an accomplishment by itself.
To be the best in the field isn't everything. By our participation in the games, we affirm the universal aspiration for excellence and our desire to connect with people. By cooperating with China’s hosting of a tantalizing “coming out” party which wowed the world, we bouy up cooperation and friendship among nations. We demonstrate that winning and losing are life-realities that all of us must contend with.We salute the cash-strapped people of Zimbabwe whose hyperinflation and economic hardships didn’t deter their athletes to bring home 4 medals. We admire Malaysia and the small West African country of Togo which brought a silver and bronze respectively.
Turbulent Georgia, which nurses wounds from separatist South Ossetia and suffers border conflict with neighbor Russia, won 6 medals. Moslem Iran, threatening Israel and the world with its nuclear program basked in victory with two well-earned medals. Our southern Asian partner Indonesia celebrates success from 5 impressive wins, one of them gold in badminton.
Amidst the dominance and superiority of the United States with 110 medals (eclipsing China in total number but not in the count for gold,) the Middle Eastern nation of Bahrain with barely a million people produced for the first time a gold medal winner in track in field. Jamaica, a Carribean country of 2.5 million brought home a spectacular win of 11 medals, 6 of them gold. War-torn Afghanistan with a population less than half of the Philippines, won a taekwondo bronze in the 17-day grueling competition.
With 85 million of us, how come we’re lagging behind these countries? How come winning an Olympic medal seems to be so unreal--- a pipe dream for us? The answer probably lies in our attitude, endurance, and value judgment. We need to trust ourselves more. We must support and appreciate the sportsmanship of our athletes. We must believe in our capacity to win, stirring us to fight as a team and as an individual for our own self-fulfillment and survival.
The aspiration of humanity to excel and be part of a cause greater than its own is part of the Olympic tradition. In a time when we doubt ourselves if we can go beyond what others expect of us, our athletes stand as beacons of hope and exemplars of our soul’s triumph. Even if our athletes didn’t win, in the field of dreams, their hearts shine as bright as the torch and the gold of the Olympics.CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FILIPINO OLYMPIC ATHLETES!
Eric Ang---Shooting; Ryan Paolo Arabejo---Swimming;
Daniel Coakley---Swimming; Henry Dagmil---Track & Field; Hidilyn Diaz----Weightlifting; Rexel Ryan Fabriga---Diving; Tshomlee Go---Taekwondo; Mark Javier---Archery; Miguel Molina---Swimming; Sheila Mae Perez---Diving; Mary Antoinette Rivero---Taekwondo;
Christel Simms---Swimming; Harry Tanamor---Boxing;
Marestella Torres---Track & Field; JB Walsh---Swimming. (PhotoCredits: AFP/NicolasAsfouri; Reuters/OlegPopov; Reuters/MikeBlake)=0=
Pres. George Bush & his fading presidency
It’s a hell of a job to be the president of the United States. Pres. George W. Bush, for all his efforts to make his second term appealing to the Americans and the world, has been met with doubts, opposition, and ridicule. He is accused of lying about Iraq though he decided to wage war on the basis of bipartisan approval by the US legislature, on the series UN resolutions versus Saddam Hussein left unimplemented, and on data supplied to him by CIA and the intelligence circles. Since 911, there is no major terrorist attack in the American heartland. Al Qaeda has withered and the troop surge in Iraq is showing positive results. That’s consoling enough for some grateful Americans, but not for the majority.
There are worrisome issues on the economy, homeland security, healthcare, illegal immigration, social security, climate change, abortion, gay marriage, stem cell research and education which stand on the way--- on which the verdict of his presidency will be based. Though history hasn’t spoken, the president’s enemies have dunked him, even campaigned for his failure. His call to drill for oil which is supported by fellow Republicans and 70% of Americans to ease up future fuel shortages, have been rebuffed by Democratic party leader Nancy Pelosi.
As Pres. Bush fades towards November, when the election of a new president comes, he visibly enjoys a respite at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. In the sands of Chaoyang Park Beach Volleyball Ground, in August 9, 2008, he exchanged fun and laughter with Kerrie Walsh, a veteran US Olympian. (Photo Credit: Reuters/Downing, L)
Viewing a picture in the prism of race
Offensive or Innocuous? A picture of the olympic basketball team of Spain showing players slanting their eyes in reference to the Beijing Games can be dismissed as an innocent joke or a racial insult depending on one’s mood or point of view. Yet in this age of delicacy and political correctness, the picture which appeared in the Spanish newspaper La Marca has drawn some ire and criticisms. To quash further debates, extinguish anger and avoid racially-motivated violence, an apology has been recommended. YahooSports (08/12/08, Chase,C.)=0=
Beijing Olympics & China’s Human Rights Record
A nation of 1.3 billion people welcomes the world as it hosts the Beijing Olympics which started on 08/08/08. (Photo Credit: AP) Beaming with national pride, China pulls out a rousing 3 ½ -hour program of pageantry and fireworks to usher in the onset of competitions. It’s an occasion to show its best, after its modern transformation since the communists came to power in 1949. In regions ravaged by the earthquake in May which killed 70,000 people and rendered close to 5 million people homeless, the people in the countryside and city took time to revel on the glitter of the moment, congregating in villages to watch the spectacular event in TV. About 70 world leaders which include Russia’s Vladimir Putin, France’s Nicholas Sakorzy and Philippines’ Gloria M. Arroyo came to greet Chinese President Hu Jintao. More than 100,000 security personnel were deployed to assure the orderly conduct of the spectacle which was viewed by the largest audience ever: 2.3 billion people worldwide.
Costing about $70 billion, the sporting event has been hounded by political and environmental concerns in spite of government officials' diplomatic maneuvers and efforts to curb air pollution. Beijing still has the smoggy haze that concerns athletes. The city is moderately polluted (air pollution index of 94 vs. WHO's recommended level of <52.) Participants raise environmental concerns and fret over the heat and humidity which may affect their performance in the games.
The world seems not ready to forget China’s poor human rights records. From various places worldwide protests have erupted against China’s domestic repressive policies. Critics and political activists condemn China’s supply of arms to the genocidal regime of Darfur. The Chinese government hasn't opened a meaningful dialogue with the Dalai Lama to resolve Tibet's autonomy and desire for self-rule. In a speech which irks Chinese officials, US Pres. George W. Bush said the people of China deserve to enjoy basic liberty, the natural right of very human being.
In spite of government measures to curb pollution, Beijing still has the smoggy haze that concerns athletes. The city is moderately polluted prompting participants to complain over the heat and humidity which may affect their performance in the games. The Olympic organizers are closely monitoring the air safety and weather to determine if competitions need to be rescheduled.As Beijing Olympics play on, we can’t ignore the positive forces of peace, friendship, understanding and goodwill that propel the holding of the games. Yet, behind the sublime intentions of nations, there are political, social, economic, and environmental concerns which stick out as urgent challenges for the people of the world to tackle.=0=
Air Pollution Worries Athletes in Beijing Olympics
In spite of efforts to curb pollution in the August Beijing Games, concern lingers among athletes who are arriving to compete in the olympics. Some American track cycling athletes recently planed wearing masks in spite of China shutting down factories and preventing half of 3.3 million vehicles to ply on the road to decrease pollution. Photo Credit: AFP/Getty/Brown,F.
“You got to take every chance you have just to protect the airways,". "It's really just taking every precaution necessary. Who knows how bad it's going to be in a few days so if you can resist any air pollution, any contaminants, then you know it's better performance hopefully," Michael Friedman, an US Olympic cyclist said
Masks are of doubtful use if chemical pollutants that affect the athletes’ health and performance are suspended on the air.
Arne Ljungqvist, chairman of the IOC medical commission, said the committee is evaluating the city's air quality based on standards set by the World Health Organization. She said the air monitoring results from 27 sites since July 27, 2008 had been encouraging. AP(08/05/08)
Dreams of Gold Fizzles Before Beijing Olympics Starts
Nimble bodies flail up in the air, defying gravity. With agility, strength, and grace honed by pains-taking years of training, they roll-over, tumble, and ricochet like darting bullets at speeds that please the eye. Strained to the limits, their bodies go after the quintessential achievements in competitive sports. In the coming Beijing Olympics, athletes accept the risks of injury if only to nail a glowing moment on the podium for themselves and for the country they represent. The challenge for an exceptional performance is so strong that some would do anything to pursue it.
The strict discipline of training, exercise, and diet may not be enough to assure a medal. Politics, government interference, change of health, and even foul weather can stand on the way. All the preparations may altogether be wasted if the window of opportunity to compete closes prematurely.
Paul Hamm, USA’s top seed for gymnastics gold, knows it first hand. (Photo:NYTimes/SilvermanB) He bows out from the race at the eve of the 2008 Beijing Games because of a strained rotator cuff and a hand fracture that didn’t recuperate on time. The same happened to legendary figure skater Michelle Kwan in 2006 Torino Winter Olympics when groin injuries booted her out of competition, abruptly ending her dreams of gold.Nature has a way of demanding what must be for the body and the soul. Even the best of talented athletes are governed by the laws of injury and repair. It takes time for healing to proceed, be it in the mind or in the bone. =0=
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