Filipino athletes are set to make their mark at the 9th Asian Winter Games, with freestyle skier Laetaz Amihan Rabe and figure skaters Isabella Gamez and Aleksandr Korovin kicking off their campaigns on Tuesday. The competition presents a challenging field, but Team Philippines remains hopeful for a strong showing.

Freestyle Skier Rabe Faces a Tough Battle

At just 15 years old, Laetaz Amihan Rabe is the youngest competitor in the women’s freeski slopestyle event. She will go head-to-head against top athletes, including Japan’s Kanon Kondo, national champion Kiho Sugarawa, and Chinese veterans Han Linshan, Liu Mengting, and Yang Ruyi.

Despite the competition, Rabe remains determined.

“It’s a tough field, but I am ready for tomorrow’s competition. I hope all goes well,” she shared.

Though she is dealing with the physical challenges of her menstrual cycle, her father insists that no excuses will be made.

“Her energy dips, but at the end of the day, she fights against those who are not facing the same challenge,” he said.

Gamez and Korovin Debut in Pair Skating

Making their Asian Winter Games debut, Isabella Gamez and Aleksandr Korovin will compete in the pair skating short program at the HIC Multifunctional Hall in Harbin. The duo has undergone rigorous training in preparation for the event.

“We are excited and honored to be here representing the Philippines. We are confident with our training and will approach this competition with the same mindset as always,” said Gamez.

Their coach, Abraham Domdom, emphasized the importance of precision.

“They have built strong confidence through months of training. It’s a tough field, but I believe they are ready.”

Philippine Curling Teams in Action

The Philippine women’s curling team suffered its first defeat in three games on Monday, falling 6-4 to Japan. The team, led by Kathleen Dubberstein and Leilani Sumbillo An, started strong with a 4-1 lead before Japan staged a comeback.

Now holding a 2-1 record, the team will face Kazakhstan and Thailand next before taking on host China and powerhouse Korea. They need to finish in the top four of the nine-team round robin to advance to the semifinals.

Meanwhile, the men’s curling team bounced back with a commanding 4-1 victory over Kazakhstan after a loss to South Korea. The team, featuring Marc and Enrico Pfister, Alan Frei, and Christian Haller, must win upcoming matches against Kyrgyzstan and Chinese Taipei to secure a spot in the qualification round.

What’s Next for Team Philippines?

With crucial competitions ahead, Filipino athletes continue their pursuit of podium finishes at the 9th Asian Winter Games. Fans eagerly await the next performances from Rabe, Gamez, and Korovin, hoping to witness historic victories for Philippine winter sports.