The future is definitely bright for Philippine gymnastics with someone as talented and passionate as Aleah Finnegan.
Olympic glory was not in the cards but Aleah Finnegan has one major takeaway in her memorable Paris 2024 debut.
“Forever an Olympian.”
Finnegan penned a lengthy message a couple of days after coming up with a decent showing in the women’s artistic gymnastics event at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The 21-year-old Filipina-American ended up with a total score of 50.498, good for a 33rd place overall. She had 13.733 in the vault, 11.466 in the balance beam, 12.566 in the uneven bars, and 12.733 in the floor exercise.
[ALSO READ: Paris 2024: Levi Jung-Ruivivar, Emma Malabuyo, Aleah Finnegan end historic Olympic campaign]
Finnegan extended her profound gratitude to her family, coaches, teammates, and the Philippine community throughout her Paris 2024 journey.
“To my family, thank you for supporting me no matter what. For always pushing me to chase my dreams even when I didn’t think they were possible. To my dad who I know is smiling down from heaven, he always believed I would be here someday.”
“To my coaches, both at LSU and GAGE. I wouldn’t be here if not for the help, patience, sacrifice and hard work from everyone included. Thank you for supporting me.”
“To my teammates and friends, you all have made this journey incredibly FUN! We are having fun! Thank you for picking me up and helping me to find joy in the sport again.”
“& to GAP, POC, and the entire Philippine community, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to represent this beautiful country and accepting me with open arms. I am honored to wear this flag on my chest.”
After her performance, Finnegan held her head high with no regrets whatsoever in her first taste of Olympic action.
“No matter what, I’m walking here with my head held high; I have no regrets, and I’m just proud to represent the Philippines on the stage,” she added.
[ALSO READ: Queen of Grace: Aleah Finnegan held her head high despite an intense challenge in her Olympic debut]
Her compatriots in Levi Ruivivar and Emma Malabuyo finished a joint-tied in the 28th spot with identical total scores of 51.099
The gymnast trio have already made history after ending a 60-year drought for the participation of female Filipina gymnasts in the Olympics. Not since Evelyn Magluyan and Maria-Luisa Floro in Tokyo 1964 have a Filipina gymnast seen action in the Olympics.
Way too early to tell, but we might be able to see this trio in Los Angeles 2028 down the line if the stars align once more right?