With time to rest, swimmers Alkhaldi, Lacuna opt to train

Olympian swimmer Jessie Khing Lacuna. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

RIO DE JANEIRO – It was relatively quiet at the Philippine headquarters Sunday with most of its athletes spending more time giving themselves ample time to rest.

Except for a few, including swimmers Jasmine Alkhaldi and Jessie Khing Lacuna, who opted to train in the afternoon, the Filipino athletes stayed indoors most of the day.

The athletes will all get back to work Monday or five days before the opening ceremony.

The day started with a Mass officiated by a Brazilian priest inside the Philippine quarters located at Building 2 of the Athletes Village.

The Filipinos packed the living room of the condominium unit that serves as secretariat and home to a handful female athletes and team officials.

The Mass ended with the priest offering prayers for the athletes.

“I pray for you, your families and your country. If you are happy to be here, then everybody in your country is happy for you,” said the priest.

Taekwondo jin Kirstie Elaine Alora was a bit under the weather. However, team physician Dr. Ferdinand Brawner said there was nothing much to worry about.

Alora was given proper medication and was advised to rest.

Dr. Martin Camara, a noted chiropractic specialist back home, has joined the delegation from Manila, and checked on a handful athletes.

Long jumper Marestella Torres-Sunang had her pelvis and back “realigned,” and said she felt much better after a short session.

“It’s like a car that with poor alignment will not run well,” said Camara, who did some twisting Marestella’s back and neck areas.

Weightlifters Hidilyn Diaz and Nestor Colonia were also given time to rest. Sunday marked the first full week of stay for the Pinoy delegation here.

The other athletes who are already here are Ian Lariba of table tennis and boxers Rogen Ladon and Charly Suarez.

Arriving soon are hurdler Eric Cray, marathoner Mary Joy Tabal and golfer Miguel Tabuena./rga