TAGUM CITY -- The long drought is over for Davao City judoka Chino Sy Tancontian who finally won his first-ever Batang Pinoy judo gold medal at the New Tagum City Hall here Tuesday, November 29.
Tancontian, a 15-year-old Davao Wisdom Academy student, scored an ippon against Joshua Victor Lamis of Negros Occidental and Baguio City bet Lord Angelo Trinidad who got the silver and bronze, respectively.
Tancontian, younger brother of recent Batang Pinoy girls +70 kilogram (kg) judo gold medalist Sydney Sy Tancontian and the son of former judo Philippine national team mainstay Paolo Tancontian, had several judo medals in Batang Pinoy in the past but none of it was gold. He, however, had won golds in past Batang Pinoy wrestling meets.
"I feel so great having clinched my first Batang Pinoy gold in judo," Chino said in an interview with VoxPop Davao, adding that he trained hard to win the gold. Previously, he competed in -42 kg, 50 kg, 55 kg and 66 kg.
He hopes to defend the title next year and to also compete in the upcoming Philippine National Games (PNG).
"Maglalaro talaga ako sa PNG bahala na magalit si papa (laughs) [I will play at PNG even if dad will get mad]," Chino said as he cited his father and his team for their support.
Paolo plans to enroll Chino at the University of Sto. Tomas just like his daughter Sydney.
"Mas gusto ko mag-aral siya at mag varsity scholar siya para habang nag e-enjoy siya sa pag co-compete makakapagtapos siya at the same time," the proud father said.
Meanwhile, Janine Marcos, Ashley Marbebe and Trisha Solis copped one bronze medal each for Davao City. (ABM)