Wrestlers, jiu-jitsu bets open Philippines bid

ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan – Wrestlers and jiu-jitsu grapplers kick off the Philippines’ campaign in the 2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games beginning tomorrow at the Ashgabat Olympic Stadium here.

Three-time International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation World Championship champion Margarita Ochoa opens the Filipinos’ bid in this fifth edition of AIMAG.

“I knew most of the entries here and I’m ready,” said the 5-foot-1 Ochoa, who also won a gold medal in the Asian Beach Games a year back in Danang, Vietnam.

Ochoa, 27, will fight in the 45kg division.

Also expected to deliver a medal for the Philippines is Annie Ramirez, a two–time gold medal winner in the Asian Beach Games. She recently won two gold medals in the Asian Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Hanoi, Vietnam.

“I think my chances are good and I’m confident to win the gold,” said Ramirez.

Eight other jiu-jitsu fighters are also seeing action in the event, including Hansel Terence Co (77kg), Gian Taylor Dee (56kg), Mark Alexander Lim (69kg), Golbert Ambao (94kg), Apryl Eppinger (62kg), Lou-Ann Jindani (55kg) and Carolina Pajaron (49kg).

The traditional wrestling will likewise start tomorrow with five fighters out to make a podium finish, led by Alvin Lobregito (freestyle 57kg), Jefferson Manato (classic style 57kg), Johnny Morte (freestyle 68kg), Grace Loberanes (freestyle 52kg) and Noemi Tenner (freestyle 58kg).

National team chef de mission Monsour del Rosario said there is a strong chance for the team to capture medals in jujitsu and wrestling.

“Everything is on track. Looks like the athletes are in good spirits last night I checked them,” said the former Olympian.

The national team will see action in 17 events, including electronic sports.