YANQING, China— Asa Miller is getting all the support and motivation from all over—including Olympics weightlifting champion Hidilyn Diaz and her fellow medalists at last year’s Summer Games in Tokyo.
“Good luck Asa [Miller] on your competition and I know you can do it,” Diaz said. “I know you prepared for this. We, the entire Filipinos, are praying for your success tomorrow [Sunday].” “This is the day and good luck,” she added.
Tokyo Games boxing silver medalists Carlo Paalam and Nesthy Petecio encouraged the 21-year-old Filipino-American to give his very best for flag and country and take care of himself as he skis down the mountain.
“Good luck to you Asa, our very own Olympic representative in Beijing,” Paalam said. “Make us proud and let’s sustain our fight for Philippine pride. Stay strong and always take care. We are always here for you.”
Petecio reminded Miller that being an Olympian for the second straight time is an absolutely proud achievement.
“I would like to say that I am so proud of him, being an Olympian is already a great achievement,” Petecio said. “Always remember to pray to God and always believe in yourself.”
Petecio added: “I know it’s not only the tough competition that will challenge you but also the very cold weather. But we believe you can do it. We support you.”
Bronze medalist Eumir Felix Marcial, now training in Las Vegas for his second pro fight in March, also wished Miller good luck.
“To my fellow Olympian, I wish you all the best and good luck. Viva Filipino!! Let’s go!” Marcial said via video message.
International Boxing Federation super flyweight champion Jerwin Ancajas joined in and extended his support for Miller.
“Good luck Asa, I know you can do it and always take care of yourself,” said Ancajas, who will fight Fernando Daniel Martinez of Argentina on February 26 at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas. (PR) – bny
