Riding Carlos Yulo wave, PH hosts world gymnastics tilt

Carlos Yulo raises his fist during Team Philippines’ Heroes Parade in Manila.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Carlos Yulo’s stellar performance at the Paris Olympics has solidified the Philippines’ reputation as a rising power in global gymnastics. Yulo, who clinched gold medals in the men’s floor exercise and vault, has created a pool of aspiring gymnasts here.

The momentum continues with the Philippines set to host the 3rd Federation Internationale de Gymnastique Artistic Gymnastics World Championships next year. The event, scheduled for July 12 to 21, is expected to attract gymnasts from over 80 countries, providing invaluable exposure for young Filipino athletes aiming to emulate Yulo’s success.

“Given that the Philippines has one of the youngest populations in the world, this hosting is expected to produce a multitude of exceptional gymnasts, the likes of Carlos Yulo, from among the over 24 million Filipinos aged 5-17 years old,” Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion told the Inquirer.

Career opportunities

Yulo, 24, a native of Malate, Manila, has already earned six World Championship medals (two gold, two silver and two bronze), 10 Asian titles and nine Southeast Asian Games golds. His dominance has largely come from his favorite events: the floor, vault and parallel bars.

“Gymnastics is the [foundation] of all sports. Children can start learning as early as two years old and begin serious training between four and six,” Carrion said.

Yulo’s journey began at seven when he watched gymnasts train at Manila’s Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. At 16, he moved to Japan on a scholarship from the Japan Olympic Association, where he honed his skills and built his path to global recognition.

Inspired by Yulo’s achievements, hundreds of Filipino children are now venturing into gymnastics, seeing new career opportunities in the sport. INQ