After winning in the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil, Hidilyn Diaz had started dreaming of making weightlifting popular in the Philippines.
2016 Rio Olympic Games Weightlifting silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz is hoping to start sharing her knowledge in her chosen sports to the children in her hometown by December.
Of course, spending the holidays with her family in Zamboanga is on the top of Diaz’ list.
“My Christmas wish is to be with my family and give time to teach and bond with the kids in Zamboanga. I did not have the time then and I will be happy if I can do that”, the weightlifting silver medalist said.
Diaz had bought a property where she would construct a gymnasium that would house potential athletes. As of now, she is still fixing the issues with the lot for the gym but this early, Hidilyn is excited to train future champions from Mampang.
Right after she won the silver in Brazil, Diaz said that she wants the Filipino youth to have interest in her sport and inspire them to reach for the Olympic medal.
This is why she bought the property to construct a gym, funded by the P5 million cash reward she received from the Philippines and from the various government officials, businessmen and sponsors.
The 25 year old athlete said that she has seen many potential champions, especially in the Mampang Weightlifting Club.
“I can say that the future of weightlifting is bright”, Diaz said.
For now, Diaz is juggling her jam-packed schedule. She spends her time training for big national and international tournaments for next year, making some inspirational talks, and studying, as she takes the course of business management at the College of St. Benilde.
But she is determined to continue her journey in the Olympic Games, and she targets to make in to the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.