AFTER losing in his Olympic debut in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, weightlifter Nestor Colonia expressed nothing but optimism as he looks forward to the 2020 Tokyo Games and his endeavor with Hidilyn Diaz to help aspiring athletes in their hometown of Zamboanga City.
After their whirlwind victory tour in Mindanao and courtesy calls to several public and private offices, Colonia told the BusinessMirror that he is now ready to hit the gym and continue to aspire for that elusive Olympic medal after his failure win a medal in Rio.
“Balik kami ng training kapag okay na si Hidilyn sa schedule niya. Busy pa kasi and marami pa kaming appearances,” Colonia said.
The 22-year-old weightlifter, who competed but went short in his campaign in the 56-kilogram event, said that his struggle in the Summer Games will be a learning experience and will be shifting his focus to improve his performance to get another shot in the next Olympiad in the capital of Japan.
“Iba pala ‘yung pakiramdam kapag Olympian ka. Iba ‘yung feeling na naroon ka,” Colonia said.
Asked about his performance, the diminutive but well-built athlete said he believed that he can beat his opponents with enough preparation.
“Malakas ‘yung mga kalaban. Pero kaya ko naman sanang manalo. Pagbubutihin ko pa ang training,” said Colonia, ranked fifth in his category before the Games.
He will now partner with Diaz to help the kids in Zamboanga in improving their skills in weightlifting. He wants to inspire children in continuing their passion in the sport.
“Doon talaga sa amin eh mahihirap ‘yung mga bata. So sa sports talaga sila tumatakbo,” Colonia said.
“Iniisip talaga namin ni Hidilyn ‘yung mga bata kasi mawawala din kami sa kakayahan namin. Gusto naming makahanap ng malalakas at deserving na bata,” he added.
In Rio Games, Colonia lifted 120 kg at the snatch, but he was unable to complete his 154-kg attempt for the clean and jerk after three tries to bow out of medal contention.
Image credits: AP