SEA Games: Timor Leste’s 1st medalist thanks Filipinos for support

Timor Leste’s Imbrolia De Araujo Reis Amorin holds up her bronze medal, her country’s first in the 30th SEA Games. Photo by Bong Lozada

MANILA, Philippines—Imbrolia De Araujo Reis Amorin’s bronze medal, Timor Leste’s first in the 30th Southeast Asian Games, shone brighter than gold.

Amorin delivered Timor Leste’s first medal with three days left in the biennial sporting event and the diminutive jin couldn’t help but be emotional after her success in kyorugi competition of taekwondo.

“It’s the first medal for my country that’s why I’m so emotional, I feel so happy and I’m excited,” said Amorin Sunday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium. “I give this medal for my country Timor Leste and thank you for the Philippines for supporting me.”

“My biggest dream is to give some medals for my country because this is my first time in the SEA Games.”

https://sports.inquirer.net/378032/timor-leste-finally-gets-its-first-medal-in-2019-sea-games

Before her victory, Timor Leste was the only country without a single medal in the tally. After Amorin’s win, two more boxers added to their tally which will be officially counted after the boxing awarding ceremonies.

Amorin, who is in the same weight class as Pauline Lopez at under-57 kilograms, scored an inspiring 34-32 win over Myanmar’s Kaung Nan Thou Narry in the quarterfinals.

The win secured Amorin her bronze medal much to the jubilation of both the Philippine and Timor Leste crowd in attendance.

Amorin, however, lost to Cambodia’s Aliza Chhoeung in the semifinals, 17-3, stopping her fairy tale run.

“I’m so happy for the Philippines for supporting me, I’m going to say thank you to all the Filipino people for supporting my country,” said Amorin.