Filipinos to watch out for at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics

MANILA, Philippines - It is just days away from the opening ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games and you might be wondering who to look out for in the spectacular event happening in Russia.

After a 22-year absence, the Philippines will be represented by figure skater Michael Christian Martinez from Muntinlupa. The 17-year-old Michael is the first homegrown Filipino figure skater competing in the Winter Olympics. Initially, he did not expect to qualify in this year’s Olympic Games but he and his mother took the risk of competing this year. He is looking to qualify and finish in the Top 24.

Filipino-foreigners will also be making a mark in the Winter Olympics this year. JR Celski is competing in the short-track speed skating for the US. He is looking for a gold medal finish this year after capturing two bronze medals at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Celski, who is born to a Filipino mother and Polish American father, is considered the face of the US team. His return to this year’s Winter Olympics is a story of triumph as he suffered an injury months before Vancouver 2010.

Another Filipino to make his mark is Gilmore Junio, a long track speed skater representing Canada. Born and raised in Calgary, Alberta to Filipino parents who immigrated to Canada, Junio is considered “the fastest Filipino on ice.” According to a Canadian news article, Junio is proud of his Filipino heritage. Although he had no relatives who were hit by Typhoon Yolanda, he expressed his prayers for the victims. He hopes his Olympic gold will inspire Filipinos to rise above the hardships.

The XXII Olympic Winter Games will be aired on TV5 starting tomorrow.