Cheyanne Manuel, center, poses after winning gold in the 1st Airforce Special Service Group Weightlifting Competition 2023 in Pasay City, Metro Manila, the Philippines.
THE NMI’s Cheyanne Manuel won gold in the 1st Airforce Special Service Group Weightlifting Competition 2023 in Pasay City, Metro Manila, the Philippines.
The event was part of the HD Weightlifting Academy training camp conducted by Hidilyn Diaz, a second lieutenant in the Philippine Air Force, who won the gold in weightlifting in the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
In the competition, Manuel recorded a snatch of 65kg and clean & jerk of 80kg to finish first. She said she was not truly satisfied with her performance due to her weight cut and constant training, but, “I am trusting the process,” she added.
She said the training camp was focused on building technique and strength through proper diet and training.
“Through this camp I have learned the importance of community and positivity. I am surrounded by a team who supports and constantly pushes me to be better both mentally and physically,” she added.
“As commonly stated, it takes a whole community to build one athlete. To have a team that has the same mindset and goals as you do is essential to succeed,” Manuel said.
She is learning the importance of a positive mindset in the midst of adversity — “whether that be in training or everyday life. Regardless of what troubles you face, there will always be at least one thing to be grateful for,” she added.
So far, she said the toughest part is overcoming mental doubts and staying strong “when outside issues interfere.”
“I am training in the Philippines not just to be a better athlete, but to be a better person,” Manuel said.
