Filipino jins depart today

Filipino taekwondo jins Toni Rivero and Tshomlee Go will leave for Beijing today carrying on their shoulders the country’s only remaining medal hopes in the Beijing Olympics.

Go said it’s such a pity to watch Harry Tañamor, the only Filipino entry in the boxing competitions and even considered one of the favorites in the 48 kg class, lose in his first bout.

“Sayang (Too bad),” said the 27-year-old Go on the eve of his departure as he referred to Tañamor’s stunning 6-3 loss to Ghana’s Manyo Plange Wednesday night.

Go and Rivero, both in their second tour of duty in the Olympics, will be joined by Korean coach Kim Hok Sik and Filipino mentor Rocky Samson when they leave at 7 a.m. today.

Taekwondo action begins on Aug. 20 after the official weigh-in a day before.

“We’re really trying not to talk of pressure too much,” said Go in Filipino. “Our coach keeps telling us to focus, be ready and prepare for our fights.”

Go will see action in the 58-kilogram class on Aug. 20 while Rivero in the 67kg two days later.

Taekwondo chief Robert Aventajado, who will join the team on Aug. 19, is hoping that Tañamor’s loss wouldn’t affect his athletes’ performance in Beijing.

“It’s sad we lost in boxing. It would surely add to the pressure,” Aventajado told The STAR.

“But they have prepared hard and long for this one event. I’m optimistic they will do their best and not be affected by this,” he added.

Aside from boxing, the country is pinning its hopes on Go and Rivero, who have undergone military-like training in Korea, the birthplace of the sport.

With Tañamor gone, Go and Rivero are now the country’s only medal hopes out there.