STIer Cops Bronze in 2019 SEA Games

January 6, 2020

Despite having only two years of restless preparation with the Philippine National Sailing Team for SEA Games 2019, a composed and vigorous Brandhon Kyrielle Aquino from STI College Caloocan finally captured a bronze medal in the Sailing Category on December 7, 2019.

This victory is just a portion of Aquino’s long and inspiring journey to success.

 

Love at first sight

It was a fine day at Roxas Boulevard, when seven-year-old Aquino and his lolo passed by the Manila Yacht Club and saw a couple of children preparing to sail.

Brandhon was astonished with what he saw. "Kinausap po ng lolo ko yung club kung pwede po akong sumali, at yun na nga sinali na po ako ng lolo ko."

He then fell in love with sailing because for him it was different from other sports. He embraces the freedom that comes from sailing the vastness of the ocean. As Brandhon grew up, his love for sailing also grew stronger.

Sailing has also paved the way for Brandhon to travel to other countries and different places such as Langkawi and Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia.

 

Perseverance pays

Brandhon, a member of the Philippine National Sailing Team, admitted that training for 2 years ― 3 times a week and 5 times a week during vacation ― was no easy task. He also said that his training program was difficult as he had to gain weight and have better control of his body against the strong winds when sailing.

"Nag-eexercise po kami sa umaga at hapon para lumakas. Ako naman po ay kailangan ko mag-gain ng bigat dahil kulang po ang weight ko dahil malakas na hangin ang inaasahan namin sa araw ng karera."

 

Withstanding difficulties

Just like any other youth today, Brandhon has also faced problems in balancing both his career in sailing and his life as a student. There were times wherein he missed most of his classes because he had to train and compete in another country.

At a very young age, Brandhon has already realized the value of education while still working hard to pursue his sports. He did not let his hectic schedule hinder his academic life, Brandhon always make sure that he has time for both his studies and sailing.

 

Future plans

After the SEA Games, Brandhon is now eyeing the Olympics since none of his teammates has ever qualified in the Olympics before. It will be a proud moment for him and the Philippine National Sailing Team to be able to represent the country.

He also said that he would like to be a part of the Philippine Navy in the future, "Plano ko pong gamitin ang sport na yun para makapasok ng Philippine Navy, dahil pangarap ko na po talaga ito magmula ng bata pa po ako."

 

Forever grateful and humbled by the people who supported him

The journey is still far from over, and for sure it’s going to be another roller coaster ride to success. Brandhon thanks everyone who have supported him through his ups and downs.

He also extends his gratitude to his teachers in STI College Caloocan who have always been supportive and considerate towards him. "Kapag umaabsent po ako kasi may training ako, pinapayagan po nila ako," shares Brandhon.

The road to success is not a smooth one. "Kung may pangarap kayo, gawin niyo ang lahat ng inyong makakaya para matupad yun," said Brandhon when asked for his message to the aspiring youth of today.