Adonis Ramos Jr. vows to learn as much as he can from his celebrated teacher. —JUNE NAVARRO

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY—Adonis Ramos Jr., 16, stood proudly on the top podium of the boys’ 17-under 55-kilogram weightlifting contest in the 2024 Philippine Sports Commission Batang Pinoy Games with a gold medal around his neck.

At this very same tournament last year, the 16-year-old lifter carried the disappointment of a bronze medal finish.

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“I wasn’t that strong last year. This time, I showed my strength, that I’m capable of winning gold. I deserve this through hard work and perseverance,” said Ramos of his redemption triumph.

Podium finishers

The protégé of Olympic champion Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo lifted 85 kg in the snatch and 100 kg in the clean and jerk, achieving a total of 185 kg. His performance brought pride to Team HD, the grassroots program led by Diaz-Naranjo and her husband, Julius, in Jala-Jala, Rizal.

Ramos’ main competitor, Jeffre Julli of Zamboanga City, earned silver with a 161 kg total, while Knykolai Ortega secured bronze with a 76 kg lift.

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Diaz-Naranjo, the Philippines’ first Olympic gold medalist in Tokyo 2020, emphasized the value of early experiences in competitions like Batang Pinoy.

“It’s important for kids to experience failure at a young age to help build their resiliency,” she said.

Other HD wins

Team HD’s success extended beyond Ramos’ win. His victory was among four gold medals won by Rizal province lifters, including Diaz’s nephew Matthew Diaz (boys’ 43 kg 13-under), Maybelle Briones (girls’ 35 kg 13-under), and Reynadine Marie Jimenez (girls’ 40 kg 13-under).

The team also secured six silver and one bronze medal. Diaz-Naranjo described the journey of young lifters as filled with both triumphs and heartbreaks, experiences vital to their growth as athletes.

For Ramos, the future shines bright. Balancing his studies as a Grade 11 student and rigorous training, he dreams of emulating his mentor’s international success.

“I have no international experience yet. But I know that if I train under her (Hidilyn), I can learn so much and improve my lift,” he said.