17-year-old Filipino skater makes history - Gulf Daily News

MANILA: The Philippines is heartily applauding Michael Christian Martinez for making history as the first Filipino figure skater to represent the country in the Winter Olympics.

A Palace spokesperson described the 17-year-old boy as a "trailblazer," saying he should expect commensurate support from the government and private sector for his performance in the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics' men's figure skating finals late Saturday.

Although he finished 19th, Martinez dazzled the crowd, earning the high approbation of his countrymen.

"It's so delighting, and we and entire nation convey our full support to him because it's true he's the first Filipino to represent the Philippines in the winter games. And really, perhaps, for all of us, he's a real trailblazer," said deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte.

"Undeniably, his performance in Sochi will attract more people to donate to his cause or to his training because it's expensive to train for an Olympics," said Valte.

Valte said Filipinos were blown away by Martinez' performance in his final free skate routine, a stab at Olympic glory that lasted for under five minutes.

"So undeniably this will attract more attention for him and hopefully, the donors from the private sector also will come," said Valte of Martinez, the lone Philippine competitor in the 2014 Winter Olympics who advanced to the medal round of the men's figure skating competition. Valte agreed that Martinez had a bright future, as he's now part of the "elite" breed of Olympians.

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