That college diploma is within arm's reach of Hidilyn Diaz.
It took years, but Hidilyn Diaz is close to achieving one of her goals—a diploma.
On Monday, the Tokyo 2020 weightlifting gold medalist shared she is on her way to a retreat, a part of the Benildean Reflection Encounter (BeniRE) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.
"Benire 3: Retreat is my final hurdle towards graduation, and I can't wait to cross the finish line," Diaz posted on Instagram.
"Thank you for the endless opportunities and support you have given me along the way," she added.
A few though noted that the retreat should not be considered a "hurdle."
"In fact, it's a great way to end studies," one commenter said.
After winning a silver medal in the 2016 Rio Olympics, Diaz received a scholarship to study business management in 2017. She put it on hold as she trained for the next Olympics in Tokyo, where she won the Philippines' first-ever gold medal in the meet.
CSB though continued to pay homage to the athlete and awarded her the first Benilde Medallion, as a recognition of her achievements in weightlifting. An athletic scholarship was also announced in her name.
Diaz is now training for the 2024 Paris Olympics, as she is moving on to the heavier 59-kilogram division after organizers scrapped the 55-kilogram group.
And based on her husband and coach Julius Naranjo's updates, Diaz seems to be getting there.