Main image via Coconuts Jakarta
Athletes from Southeast Asia countries are putting in their all at the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, but one athlete had more pressure than others.
Indonesian wushu athlete Edgar Xavier Marvelo won two gold medals at the SEA Games in an individual and a team wushu event, but it was a bittersweet moment.
“Edgar's father died while he was competing in the event and he was only informed about it after winning the gold, bringing him to tears. He dedicates his gold medal to his country and to his father,” said the 2019 SEA Games post on Facebook.
It was reported however, that Edgar learned about the news only hours before he competed and initially requested to return to Indonesia but decided to see the competition through.
“Edgar was asked to go home by his family, but we also explained to him that he’s been working hard through his training. Before leaving, he had also met his father. After having discussed with his trainers and giving him guidance, Edgar went on to perform and we’re grateful that he got his gold medals,” said Wushu Indonesia secretary-general, Ngatino.
The 21-year-old athlete dedicated his gold medals to his father and managed to fly back to Indonesia in time for his father’s funeral and place his medals on his father’s body.
“Before his life support was removed, I told my dad that I promised to do this for him. I called my mom, please tell everyone that I can’t go home to Indonesia yet because there’s the [Kammuri] storm in the Philippines, I might only come home tomorrow morning,” Edgar told CNN Indonesia.
Netizens were touched and offered their condolences and support on social media, and that Indonesia is proud to have such a devoted athlete.
Congratulations to Edgar for your gold medals and deepest condolences to you and your family.
Info via Coconuts Jakarta
Filled Under :
*We reserve the right to delete comments that contain inappropriate content.