MANILA, Philippines – Eldrew Yulo has set the bar high for himself that he wants to replicate his older brother Carlos’ feats.
That includes winning the prestigious Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Athlete of the Year, which Carlos captured for the first time after a sensational run in the Paris Olympics where he took home two gold medals.
Eldrew also got feted during the PSA Awards Night on Monday, January 27, as he and Carlos shared the spotlight.
“The award he got is also the one I want to receive next — the Athlete of the Year,” said the younger Yulo in a mix of Filipino and English.
Eldrew, 17, is on the right track after a stellar 2024 that saw him win the junior vault crown in the Artistic Gymnastics Asian Championship in Uzbekistan in May.
He capped the past year with a bang with an impressive eight-gold sweep in the Chiu Wai Chung Cup in Hong Kong in December.
Aside from learning new skills, Eldrew said he wants to strengthen his mental fortitude as he sometimes struggles with the pressures of competing.
“Every time there is a competition, I get anxiety. I need to practice [my mentality],” said Eldrew. “I always try to motivate myself.”
Seen as the future of Philippine gymnastics, Eldrew said he is proud to witness Carlos win in the Olympics, a welcome development for the siblings after being involved in a much-publicized family rift.
“That is his dream and also my dream, so it feels like he also achieved my dream,” said Eldrew. “I’m so proud of him and proud of all the athletes.”
Eldrew is gearing up for the Junior World Artistic Gymnastics Championships that the country will host this year. – Rappler.com