After Olympics, Martinez eyes World Jr championship

MANILA, Philippines -- Figure skater Michael Martinez came home to a hero's welcome after his historical stint in the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, and vowed to return to the competition in 2018 with a better result.

"Yung mom ko sinabi niya hanggang 2013 na lang niya ako kaya i-support ang target talaga namin is to get to the Olympics this year to hopefully attract sponsors," said Martinez, in a TV interview. "I just want to qualify and compete again in the 2018 Olympics and hopefully get a medal," he added.

Martinez, finished 19th in a commendable jump in the standings after being ranked 30th among qualifiers that included thousands of aspirants.

The 17-year old Olympian believed he could have done even better if not for his lack of sleep and nagging injuries during the competition.

"Before the competition I injured my hip and it was first tested as a fracture but we took more tests and then everyday nag papa therapy ako dun to continue to compete," Martinez said.

"My ankles and knees were also hurting but I really wanted to continue with the competition," he added.

The magnitude of the quadrennial event hit him when he marched in the opening ceremonies of the prestigious competition.

"Nung nag march ako sa opening ceremony and I waved the flag it was really a magical moment for me. Grabe yung pressure and yung first step on ice it was really different, the venue and the crowd," he said.

The youthful skater is set to perform in various SM malls for his supporters and will then proceed to train abroad, for his next competition set on March 10-16 in Sofia, Bulgaria for the World Junior Figure Skating Championships.

He placed fifth overall in the same event last year.

"I just want to say to all my supporters, thank you very much for your continued support and prayers and hopefully I can still continue to skate and give more honor to the country," he said.