Olympian hopes worlds hosting lights fire of PH gymnasts
Aleah Finnegan was just two years old when she first stepped onto a gymnastics mat. Now, as an Olympian who saw action in the Paris Games, she hopes the same spark that ignited her journey will catch fire among young Filipinos this November.
“I think it’s really important that our young girls see high-level gymnastics right here in the Philippines,” Finnegan said on Thursday.
That moment will come when the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships unfold from Nov. 20 to Nov. 24 at Manila Marriott Hotel’s Grand Ballroom in Pasay City. It will be the first time the prestigious event, sanctioned by the International Gymnastics Federation, lands on Philippine soil.
The 20-year-old Finnegan, who won two golds at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games, believes the event could be a pivotal moment for the sport’s growth in the country.
“Usually, these girls only get to watch elite gymnasts on TV or social media,” she said. “Now, they’ll get to see them in person. That changes everything.”
Finnegan, who trains in Manila as she prepares for next year’s world championships in Jakarta and the SEA Games in Thailand, was thrilled by the timing.
“I’m actually really surprised how perfectly it lined up,” said the former Louisiana State University standout. “I’m excited to help the federation however I can. It’s a huge opportunity to grow gymnastics here.”
For Finnegan, who is part of a rising generation of Filipino gymnasts alongside world champion Carlos Yulo, the junior worlds represent more than just a showcase.
“We want to show the world that the Philippines is here to compete,” she said. “We don’t want to be overlooked anymore.”
The event is backed by the Office of the President, the Philippine Sports Commission, the Department of Tourism, and other major supporters, including Senators Pia Cayetano and Bong Go, Philippine Airlines, St. Luke’s Hospital, and Milo.
Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) president Cynthia Carrion said over 70 countries and close to a thousand athletes are expected to participate—surpassing the 283 gymnasts from 64 nations who competed last year in Turkey.
Karl Eldrew Yulo, younger brother of Carlos, will lead the boys’ division, while Elisabeth Antone will compete in the girls’ division for the host nation.
For Finnegan, it’s a chance to witness the future of her sport take shape—right in her training backyard.
“I’m just really excited to be a part of it all,” she said, smiling. “This could be the moment that sparks something big for Philippine gymnastics.”
