Hosting of FIG junior worlds expected to raise Philippine gymnastics standards

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The Philippines will host the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships. The event runs Nov. 20–24 at the Manila Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom. Australian coach and judge Nedal Alyousef said this will raise local standards.

Alyousef coaches the national men’s team. He also serves as an international brevet judge. He said hosting a major FIG meet is the logical next step after recent Filipino success.

“With Carlos Yulo and your other gymnasts enjoying a good result on the world stage, the next step is having a big international event in your country to boost the performance and technical standards locally,” Alyousef said.

The meet is organized by the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines. It is sanctioned by the International Gymnastics Federation. The Office of the President and the Philippine Sports Commission back the event.

Australian coach Nedal Alyousef (right), with the national men’s gymnastics squad at the last world championships in Jakarta, Indonesia, sees the world juniors as a big boost for the development of local gymnastics. [PSC photo]

Elite meet to sharpen athletes, coaches and judges

Alyousef holds an FIG Level 3 coaching certificate. He has judged at Sydney, Rio and Tokyo Olympics. Therefore, he believes the championships will provide critical learning for athletes, coaches and technical officials.

He praised GAP president Cynthia Carrion for bringing the event to Manila. He said her leadership will deliver long-term benefits for the sport in the country.

The event has strong commercial support. Newport World Resorts, Milo, Pocari Sweat and Cignal are among the backers.

Venue setup and global turnout win praise

FIG technical officials inspected the venue in August. They praised the site’s safety and accessibility. The competition area is close to the official hotels inside Newport World Resorts.

About 72 countries and nearly 2,000 athletes and officials will attend. Alyousef noted the meet will also help tourism and global visibility for Manila.

Local Organizing Committee chief Kevin Tan received thanks for arrangements. Official hotel partners include Manila Marriott Hotel, Sheraton Manila, Hilton Manila, Belmont Manila, Hotel Okura, Savoy Hotel and Hilton Express. Philippine Airlines is the official carrier. St. Luke’s Hospital is the medical partner.