Pasay city: Gymnastic Association of the Philippines (GAP) president Cynthia Carrion is optimistic about Karl Eldrew Yulo’s prospects in the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships, set to commence at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Newport World Resorts on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Eldrew, the younger brother of Paris Olympics double-gold medalist Carlos Edriel Yulo, is seen as a strong contender for medals. Carrion shared her confidence during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the Philippine Sports Commission conference room, noting that Eldrew has undergone intensive training in Japan for five months under the guidance of Munehiro Kugiyama at the Sohgoh Gymnastics Club in Nagoya. Kugiyama was instrumental in Carlos Yulo’s rise to world and Olympic champion status.

Carrion is particularly hopeful about Eldrew’s performance in the floor exercise, parallel bars, rings, and vault events. Eldrew previously secured a bronze medal in the vault at the Asian Junior Championships held in Jecheon, South Korea, last July. “He excels in all of these four events, and if he is able to do what he is supposed to do, he will win golds,” Carrion expressed.

Furthermore, Carrion announced that the Philippines will now be able to field both men’s and women’s teams in the five-day tournament. Initially, the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) had declined the host country’s request to field teams due to the absence of participation in the previous two editions of the World Juniors. However, the FIG later permitted the Philippines to field teams after undergoing an evaluation process. This allows other gymnasts to join Karl Eldrew Yulo and Elizabeth Antone, who were initially set to be the sole representatives in their respective divisions.

The Philippine team will include Hilarion Palles III, siblings John Anthony and CJ Pernia, along with Maxine Bondoc, Sabina Tayag, and Jellian Bantilan, all of whom showed exceptional performance at the last Batang Pinoy National Championships. Carrion acknowledged the challenging competition from strong teams such as the US, Japan, China, and Malaysia but emphasized the valuable experience and exposure for the Philippine teams.

In an effort to engage the community, school children are invited to watch the world championships for free, especially on the opening day. Carrion stated, “We want the Grand Ballroom to be filled to the brim.”

Adding a touch of entertainment to the event, movie star Derek Ramsey, a GAP board member, will host the vibrant opening ceremony, featuring Journey vocalist Arnel Pineda, who will perform the tournament’s theme song “Going for Gold.”