Fil-Am gymnasts Emma Malabuyo, Levi Jung-Ruivivar, and Aleah Finnegan share their unique journeys, from the sparkling moments on the floor to the deeper connections they've forged as Filipinas, in one of the podcast episodes of “Blind Landing.”
In one of the fabulous episodes of “Blind Landing," an award-winning independent documentary podcast that delves into the inner workings of Olympic sports hosted by Ari Saperstein, the Team Philippines girls' gymnastics squad joins for a candid session of girl talk filled with all the glitz and glamor.
Despite being raised in a different country, Fil-Am gymnasts Emma Malabuyo, Levi Jung-Ruivivar, and Aleah Finnegan proudly carry "pusong Pinoy" wherever they go.
The Filipina gymnasts didn't instantly bond, but they already knew each other from competing together in various competitions.
“I remember meeting Emma at the National Team Camp. That was my first national team camp. I remember meeting you there; we were standing pretty close to each other in line because I was short back then. Now I’m like [tall]. But Aleah, I think it was probably like championships. I remember everyone saying Aleah is so fun to talk to,” recalled 18-year-old Levi.
And of course, exploring the heart of Filipino culture begins with its traditional cuisine.
The rising stars of the Philippine gymnastics squad share laughter and stories about their favorite Filipino food.
“I say this like every time; it’s lumpia. I love ube, too,” answered Levi.
“I think lumpia is definitely a fan favorite around here. But also, I love pancit. I don’t know if you have it, but it’s like an angel noodle; then it has chicken and veggies,” said Aleah.
Beyond savoring Filipino cuisine, 21-year-old Emma has also found a deep appreciation for Filipino culture through spirited karaoke nights. As they belt out their favorite tunes with joy and laughter, they celebrate the warmth and camaraderie that define Filipino gatherings.
“I like going to Filipino parties, eating the traditional food, and, of course, having karaoke nights with my family. That is such a Filipino thing,” she added.
United by their love for their Filipino heritage, these Filipina gymnasts have also made a meaningful pact: to each get a tattoo of the Filipino sun on their ankles.
“I wanna get, I think, the Filipino sun on my ankle,” Levi shared.
“We should all get them together,” Aleah suggested.
Beyond their representation of the Philippines at the Olympics, these Filipina gymnasts have a heartfelt mission that extends far beyond the competition: they are determined to visit the country and inspire young Filipino gymnasts.
“We’re competing in the Philippines in order to connect with the community. We are all Filipinos,” mentioned Levi.
“I think the real purpose is that, of course, we have individual goals, but just like Levi said, shed light on the young athletes that are in the Philippines to be in the position that we are in someday,” added Aleah.
“That’s part of the reason why I’m going to the Philippines in August: I’m going to choreograph floor routines and teach dance there. But also, just help with the fundamentals and the basics of gymnastics because I think there’s so much talent, and then I'll hopefully in the future get my judging credentials and license so I can also help with judging on that side,” shared Emma.
Their journey is not just about personal achievement but also about giving back to their community and nurturing the dreams of aspiring gymnasts back home.
Watch the full podcast here: