Deiparine swims in front of family for first time

Philippines’ top swimming bet James Deiparine. Photo by Marc Reyes

NEW CLARK CITY—James Deiparine, one of the Philippines’ strongest bets in swimming, is bringing in his own cheering squad for the 30th Southeast Asian Games: His entire family.

“My parents will be here, my whole family from the States and 14 relatives from around the Philippines,” said Deiparine. “I know that it can be loud.”

He said this is the first time his family in the Philippines will get to see him compete live.

“I feel pretty good. I feel very excited competing right here before my fellow Filipinos,” said Deiparine.

The 26-year-old Deiparine will be competing in three events: the 100-meter breaststroke, 50-m breast and 4X100 medley.

“I feel good, the team is very close it’s more fun with a lot more people in the team,” said Deiparine while helping his teammates haul off their supplies to the team bus.

Deiparine won two silver medals during the Kuala Lumpur Games two years ago, and he vowed to go all out to win gold for the country.

“I have shook off jet lag and managed to train with teammates who arrived early as well,” said the graduate of California Polytechnic State University.