Carlos Yulo’s financier and mentor, Cynthia Carrion, received netizens’ praise after being instrumental in the Filipino gymnast’s two-gold medal finish during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
In a Facebook post, Rodel Revilla shared the story of Carlo’s meeting with Cynthia Carrion, the current president of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP).
According to Revilla, Carrion had been financing young people in the country for two decades, as she believed that someone in the Philippines would become a world-class athlete.
“Carlos was just a young boy from Manila when Cynthia first saw him at a local gymnastics competition. His performance was electrifying; his movements were precise and filled with an energy that set him apart from his peers. Cynthia, attending the event to scout for talent, immediately knew she had found a gem,” said Revilla.
“After the competition, she approached Carlos and his family. She introduced herself and offered to sponsor his training and education. Carlos’s parents, who worked tirelessly to make ends meet, were initially skeptical but soon realized the sincerity in Cynthia’s eyes. They accepted her offer, marking the beginning of a partnership that would change Carlos’s life forever,” she added.
Carrion also shouldered some of the expenses for Carlos’ training in Japan under one of the best coaches in the world.
“Carlos faced moments of doubt and fatigue, but Cynthia was always there to remind him of his potential. She became more than just a financier; she was a mentor, a confidante, and a second mother. She taught him the value of perseverance, the importance of discipline, and the power of believing in oneself,” he wrote.
“Carlos’s dedication began to pay off as he started winning medals at international competitions. Each victory brought him closer to his ultimate dream: the Olympics. Meanwhile, Cynthia continued to support him from the shadows, never seeking the limelight for herself. She believed that true success was about empowering others to shine,” he added.
Carrion was still in her quest to find more athlete who could become the next Carlos Yulo and will bring honor to the country.
“Ang daming taong tumulong sa akin. Si Ma’am Cythia, lahat po inaaway niya para lang suportahan ako. Siya ‘yung tumayong magulang ko po, naniwala po talaga sa akin,” Carlos said.