Star athlete close-up

Karen Sthea Velez (Gymnastics)

CEBU, Philippines - She doesn’t just settle for what is good, but for what is best. A person who seeks to rise above mediocrity but sees to it that her feet are always on the ground. Despite her many accomplishments, she remained humble. These qualities aptly describe the fast-rising gymnast Karen Sthea Velez.

As an athlete, she encountered a lot of challenges including proper diet to maintain her body weight, which was hard for her to control at first. Another thing is discipline because she has to balance her athletic obligations with her academic responsibilities.

But Velez always put into mind that these are just obstacles she has to hurdle for her to walk down a well-paved road towards success.

“For me, gymnastics is a venue where I can be myself. Development of my own strength is attained through the proper coordination and balance of my body,” said Velez, who just graduated from high school at the University of the Visayas (UV)-Main Campus.

The 17-year-old Velez, who traces her roots from Dipolog City in Zamboanga del Norte, learned the rudiments of gymnastics at the age of eight. It did not take long for her to make a name in the sport she is so passionate about.

Velez was a two-time Most Outstanding Athlete (MOA) in the Milo Little Olympics (2008 and 2009). In splendid manner, she swept all the gold medals in her event during the 1st National MLO as well as in the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) two years ago. She was among those who steered UV to win the team title in various regional meets as well in the Palarong Pambansa.

“My goal as a gymnast is to impart the talents and skills that God has given me to those who want to learn more about the sport. I hope to be an instructor in gymnastics one day,” she said.

Velez feels that there is still more for her to achieve. That is precisely the reason why she yearns to join international competitions.

“I have a great desire to represent the Cebuanos in the field of gymnastics and show to the world what I can do," she said.

In striving for excellence in her chosen field, Velez draws inspiration from her family, especially her mother. She want them to be proud of her achievements, knowing it could be her legacy to them.

 Also, she wants to be part of the Philippine Team someday because she believed that fighting for the flag and country is a very fulfilling achievement for every Filipino athlete.

When asked what is the greatest lesson in life she learned from being an athlete, Velez replied: “Nothing is too difficult for those who endure and give their 100 percent [in everything they do].” (FREEMAN)