Arthur Nory: ‘Have a big goal and train hard’

Most elite athletes would try out a few sports before choosing the best one that’s suited for them. And most are inspired to enter a sport that their parents are in, but that’s not the case with Arthur Nory.

His father was into judo, so that became his first sport. But right across his training area, there were kids doing gymnastics, and he knew that was the sport he wanted.

After practically begging his mom, who eventually relented, Arthur began his love affair with the sport, which culminated in him winning a bronze medal in the Floor Exercise in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Arthur Nory is in town as the newest ambassador for Bench Active. Ben Chan was present during the launch and he said Arthur is the perfect representative for Bench Active, a brand that’s focused primarily on creating flexible and durable pieces that can keep up with any sport or physical exercise.

 “Looking at the bigger picture, Bench is, above all, a lifestyle brand, so everything we do is tailor-made to suit the everyday lifestyle of Filipinos the world over. With more and more people becoming health-conscious and placing value on their wellness, creating a line like Bench Active felt like a natural next step for us,” Chan added.

 Philippine STAR: What were the emotions you had upon getting on the podium in Rio? 

Arthur Nory: The first thing that went through my head was: “I’ve been working so long for this and now I’m an Olympic medalist!” At that moment I was so grateful. When I finished my last routine, I lied down on the floor and started crying! I was thankful for everything — for being part of that moment. I was thankful for my family, friends and especially my team. It was an amazing feeling. I’m hoping again for this next year in Tokyo.

So the Tokyo Olympics is the next goal?

After Rio, one month later, I began working for Tokyo. Until now, we are working hard to qualify for the team. The team is preparing for the next Olympics, and we have the World Championships that will decide the teams for Tokyo.

You said that minutes before the finals in Rio, you decided to change your routine. Was it a big decision?

It’s a big change. We train the easy routine and the hard routine. The easy routine is what we were supposed to do in the finals; the hard routine, in training, there were many mistakes. But in the finals, you only have eight athletes. So you have to risk it. It paid off as I won the bronze medal.

How fulfilling is it to be a part of the Bench family?

I’m so happy and so grateful. It’s an opportunity and an honor to be part of this family. I’m so thankful to Mr. Ben. 

Actually he called my big brother, Israel, because he’s a fashion designer and they met in a fashion event in Paris. They kept in touch to work together in the future. And here I am.

What’s your advice for young kids?

Have a big goal and train hard, go for it! Your dreams can come true. 

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