Photo Courtesy of PhilCycling and Patrick Coo
Daniel Caluag and Patrick Coo will once again be the Philippines’ dynamic duo in BMX cycling at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.
PhilCycling Director for BMX Oscar Rodriguez confirmed to Sports Radio 918 the participation of both US-based riders in the September 19-October 4 Asiad.
Three years ago in Hangzhou, China, Coo earned a bronze medal while the veteran Caluag ranked sixth overall.
Caluag, a former Asian Games champion and London Olympian, is expected to provide the needed maturity and support to the 24-year old Coo.
Rodriguez said, “For BMX, kasama natin ulit si defending Bronze Medalist Patrick Coo at Daniel Caluag. Ang laki talagang tulong ni Daniel kay Patrick. Hindi pa siya kayang talunin ng ibang Southeast Asian countries, that’s why we decided to still include Danny being a former Asian Gold Winner.”
Caluag and Coo, who are currently training in the U.S., are expected to fly to Japan one week before the competition.
China and host Japan are billed as favorites in the Asian Games but Rodriguez believes Coo, is capable of fighting for the gold.
“Ang pinakamatindi nating kalaban is still Japan and ang pangalawa – China. Gusto ko nga sanang makita o ma-gauge si Comet kalaban si Patrick on equal foot. Parehas silang walang lamang. Kaya ni Patrick ‘yon, tinatalo ni Patrick ‘yon basta hindi homecourt. Si Patrick is really fighting for Gold.” Rodriguez added.
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