MANILA, Philippines - Brayden del Rosario held his ground against taller opponents as he pinnned down the gold medal in the Jagsport 2015 International judo competition recently at the Budo Academy in Singapore.
Del Rosario impressed the crowd with his powerful blows, focus and a show of steel nerves on his way to the finals and the gold medal in the 30-kg. category.
Providing support in his medal campaign were Reebok, Uratex, GNC, Summit Drinking Water, TeAmoFloristeria and Empire Boxing.
In one of the challenging matches of the tournament, Del Rosario subdued a bigger American opponent whom he outfought from the opening bell before the referee stopped the fight after his opponent suffered fatigue and pain.
In a usual show of sportsmanship, Brayden and his father-coach Rob del Rosario shook the hands of his rivals’ coaches and parents after each match.
Brayden further won their hearts as well as the whole crowd when he gave them a hug after the handshake. Moreover, he didn’t raise his hands in victory, not even once, and instead only bowed in respect.
“I want to show everyone that Filipinos are respectful and honorable,” Brayden said.
“I’m happy I won for my country and team, but this will just make me train better and help me be better. Thank you to all my opponents. They were cool!” he added.
Later, he also decided to join the under-10 35kg division to warm up. Though he had just turned seven weighing 30kg., he stunned everyone with a huge throw and only lost by points.
“I taught my son the virtues of humility and grace which are the key factors to becoming a true peaceful warrior,” said Rob del Rosario.
Teammate Eli Claravall, 13, gained a hard-earned bronze against more experienced, larger opponents while Mathew Soriano, also 13, won a few matches but gave in to fatigue after a delayed flight and no sleep.
Brayden represented Team Empire as well as his judo team UJFC, led by the Divina family, and the Philippine Judo Federation.