Star athlete close-up Jomar Jumapao (bowling)

CEBU, Philippines - In every game or challenge he is faced with, it's not all about the taste of glory this decorated Cebuano pinbuster is after of. For him, what matters most is the passion and dedication you put into the sport that endear you most.

“I always accept whatever the outcome is because I know that in every game you win some, you lose some," said Jomar Jumapao, one of Cebu's top bowlers. "I always have this determination to win, but I would never be discouraged if ever I lose. I don’t easily get affected with the reaction of other people.”

The 21-year-old Jumapao also dabbled in football, basketball and table tennis, but it was bowling that he is most fascinated with.

He started joining tournaments at the age of 10 but believe it or not, it took him nine years before he won his first gold medal. What made his landmark triumph more special was that he did it outside the country during the10th Asian Schools Bowling Championship in Hong Kong in 2009.

A year before that, he made it to the Philippine Juniors Team. He stayed in Manila for only a year though as he preferred to prioritize his studies here in Cebu.

Aside from Hong Kong, he has already showcased his wares in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and Australia in his 13-year stint as a bowler.

His unforgettable moment was playing against his idols - six-time world champion Paeng Nepomuceno and 2006 World Masters champion Biboy Rivera.

“When I got the chance to play with them in tournaments, it motivated me to strive harder. They served as my inspiration to dream big and aim higher,” he said.

His ultimate goal is to represent the Philippines in the prestigious World Cup.

“It is really my desire to represent the Philippines in the World Cup. That would be my ultimate goal," said the business administration student from the University of San Carlos (USC).

For Jumapao, bowling is a priceless jewel that nobody could take away from him.

“So long as my mind and body permits, I will never tire in playing bowling. It is already part of my life.” – (FREEMAN)