PHNOM PENH — Five days’ worth of closely watching Team Philippines in action is more than enough to give Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Richard Bachmann confidence this Southeast Asian Games campaign is going to go as planned.
“So far I’m very happy (with the performance),” said Mr. Bachmann after seeing the 840-strong contingent stay inside the Top 3 behind rampaging host Cambodia.
“We had a good start and we’re all hoping sana ma-maintain.”
At the rate the Filipino bets are going right now, Mr. Bachmann even sees a possible Top 3 finish.
“It looks like we’re getting there after all these golds are coming and wala pa doon sila (world No. 3 pole-vaulter) EJ (Obiena), (world champion gymnast Caloy) Yulo (and other top prospects). I guess we’re going to hit that (Top 3) also. I’m just hoping the trend, our gold and silver (production) will continue,” said Mr. Bachmann.
He said he can feel the athletes’ strong determination to reap success here.
“They’re all in high spirits and willing to rack up those golds. As long as that continues, we’ll get our goal,” he said.
The former Alaska team governor and PBA 3×3 chairman is having a blast watching all the action especially in sports he’s not familiar with before.
“You all have to remember this is my only first time. I’m only used to basketball. Now I’m seeing a full round of all sports so I’m very excited trying to go to our games,” said Mr. Bachmann, who is always seen sitting on the stands with Pinoy fans. — Olmin Leyba
