James Deiparine of the Philippines wins gold medal in swimming after he ruled the 100-meter breaststroke held at Aquatics Center, New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac, December 4, 2019. INQUIRER PHOTO / NIÑO JESUS ORBETA
NEW CLARK CITY — Despite James Deiparine’s earlier pronouncements that he will retire after the ongoing 30th Southeast Asian Games, it looks very much like he’s staying a little bit longer.
That’s according to no less than her mom, Patricia.
Philippine Swimming Inc., president Lani Velasco shared a message from the elder Deiparine that said: “Jimmy will not retire yet.”
“He has more to do for the Philippines and for everyone who has supported him,” said part of the message.
SEA Games: Deiparine clinches 1st swimming gold for PH in 10 years
Deiparine’s family flew in from the United States and other parts of the Philippines to watch the 26-year-old law student break a 10-year record in 100-meter breaststroke.
Not only he ended the 10-year gold medal drought, Deiparine also becomes the first Filipino to have set a new SEA Games record in this edition.
But more than anything, Velasco said Deiparine’s feat is an inspiration to the Filipino swimmers in particular and Philippine sports in general.
“I think everybody, all of Philippine swimming are now inspired and will wat to get more gold,” Velasco said. “And we have a lot of grassroots talents who have that potential.”
Now fans are expected to fill up the stadium watching Deipairine compete in the 50m breasts and 4X100 medley relay on Sunday and Monday, respectively.
Deiparine’s best time in 50m breasts is 27.91 seconds which is .33 seconds faster than the existing SEA Games standard.