Cebuano judoka wins gold in UAAP tilt

CEBU, Philippines - Decorated Cebuano judoka Joaquin Fernandez saved his best for last as he finally bagged the seemingly elusive gold medal in judo event of the Universities Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) at the Blue Eagles gym of the Ateneo de Manila University the other night.

“Winning the gold feels so satisfying especially that it's going to be my last (UAAP). This is a graceful exit,” said the 20-year-old Fernandez.

Fernandez's road to success in the UAAP was long and hard. During his first year, he only placed fourth. The following year was even worse for the University of the Philippines (UP)-Diliman varsity as he got eliminated right away.

“I was fighting a seeded player, a player they expect to win the gold and he did,” recalled Fernandez.

Last year, Fernandez made up from his so-so performance with a bronze-medal finish. He failed to barge into the gold medal round after losing to the seasoned Jon Rodriguez of the University of Sto. Tomas (UST).

This time, Fernandez came in much prepared, giving his best shot knowing that it's going to be his last UAAP stint.

Coincidentally, Fernandez exacted revenge over Rodriguez to top the -60 kilograms division that paved the way for the UP Fighting Maroons men's team to take the first runner-honors.

Fernandez now sets his sights on a Southeast Asian (SEA) Games pre-qualifying event in Myanmar next month.

Fernandez is left with no choice than to join the Myanmar tilt as he wants to be part of the country's representatives to the SEA Games this December.

“I have to join the qualifying event in Myanmar since my name was not included in the current lineup submitted to the POC ( Philippine Olympic committee). I even had to pay for my own fare for this meet. They will include in the lineup the one that will win the gold and silver of next month's event. Hopefully, I'll be able to deliver well,” said Fernandez. (FREEMAN)