1st Filipina 2 time Olympian Bronze Medalist Nesthy Petecio, Family's Bread Winner

 

The Petecio Family and the Nation Celebrate Nesthy Petecio's Journey in the Paris Olympics

Full Support from the Petecio Family

The Petecio family, along with their guests in Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur, stayed up late and eagerly awaited Nesthy Petecio’s semifinal match in the 57kg Division of Women's Boxing at the Paris Olympics. Nesthy, a Tokyo Olympic Silver Medalist, was their pride and joy. Before the fight began, the family gathered to pray for her victory and safety. When Nesthy stepped into the ring, the entire household erupted in cheers, filled with hope for her win.

Anxiety and Nerves While Watching

During the match, Nesthy’s mother, Priscilla, couldn’t help but feel anxious, while her father, Teodoro, instinctively took on the role of a coach, shouting instructions at the television as if his daughter could hear him. The family rejoiced every time Nesthy landed a solid punch against her Polish opponent, Julia Semereta. However, after three intense rounds, they were devastated to learn that Nesthy had lost the match.

Analyzing the Fight

According to her father, Nesthy started strong in the first round, showing good pacing and timing with her attacks. But in the second round, he noticed a change—her movements became slower. This trend continued into the third round, ultimately leading to her defeat.

A Father’s Apology and Pride

Despite the loss, Mang Teodoro became emotional and apologized to the Filipino people for Nesthy’s failure to advance to the final round. “I’m sorry to the nation. I’m sorry,” he said, expressing the pain of a former coach and a father. Nevertheless, he and his wife remain incredibly proud of their daughter’s accomplishment, as she secured a bronze medal in her Paris Olympic journey. “I’m so proud. Even if it’s just bronze, it’s still a historic achievement for a Filipina to become a two-time Olympian,” he added.

The Beginning of Nesthy’s Success

Nesthy started boxing at the young age of nine, and now, she has competed in over seventy boxing tournaments. Her parents witnessed her determination and perseverance throughout her career. “But that’s how it is; in every competition, there are wins and losses,” they said, showing their acceptance of the result. Despite the loss, they are grateful that Nesthy never forgets to support them. “Nesthy really sustains us. She takes care of the entire family. She never abandoned us. Financially, she is the one who supports us,” her Mother shared.