Courtesy: Gymnastics Association of the Philippines
Philippine artistic gymnastics standouts Tchelzy Mei Maayo and Hillarion Palles III are embracing the opportunity of a lifetime after qualifying for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, set for October 31 to November 13.
The two Pasig City natives earned their berths in the prestigious youth multi-sport event through their performances at the 19th Junior Artistic Gymnastics Asian Championships held last month in Zunyi, China.
The 14-year-old Maayo placed fourth in the women’s vault event, while the 16-year-old Palles finished 35th in the parallel bars to secure their Youth Olympic qualification.
In an interview with Sports Radio 918, both athletes, who are products of the national grassroots sports programs Batang Pinoy and Palarong Pambansa, said they are honored to wear the Philippine colors in one of the world’s biggest stages for young athletes.
“I was really surprised, happy and excited to compete against all of the world’s best junior gymnasts. It’s an honor and I’m really glad. I hope I can represent and make the country proud,” said Maayo, who began training in gymnastics at the age of five.
For Palles, qualifying for the Youth Olympic Games marks a significant milestone in his decade-long journey in the sport.
“Ito na po yung hakbang para makuha ko po yung pangarap ko at mas makilala pa po ako ng mga kapwa ko Pilipino. Ibibigay ko po yung best ko sa competition na ito,” Palles said.
Both gymnasts are determined not only to compete but also to challenge for podium finishes in Dakar.
“I want to target mostly my balance beam, vault and floor exercise. But for a medal, I really hope I can get one in vault or beam because those are my strongest events,” Maayo said.
“Ibibigay ko po lahat ng best ko sa lahat ng events. Sa special events ko po na high bar at parallel bars, doon ko po ibibigay ang focus ko para makapasok sa finals. Hindi ko na po sasayangin ang pagkakataon na ito at gagawin ko po ang lahat,” Palles added.
As part of their buildup to the Youth Olympic Games, Maayo will compete in an All-Japan tournament next month, while Palles is scheduled to undergo a two-month training camp in Japan as both athletes intensify their preparations for Dakar.
With the addition of Maayo and Palles, the Philippines now has nine qualified athletes for the 4th Youth Olympic Games, joining athletics standouts Pi Durden Wangkay and Naomi Cesar, swimmers Rhianna Chantelle Coleman and Jamesray Mishael Ajido, road cyclist Maritanya Krog, wushu taolu specialist Angel Polo, and windsurfer Jade Justiniane.
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