Miller flies to Beijing Sunday

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Sports Commission chairman William Ramirez and Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino yesterday praised Fil-American alpine skier Asa Miller as he embarks on a mission to do well for the Philippines in the Winter Olympics set Feb. 4-20 in Beijing, China.

Miller will fly from Los Angeles in the United States to Beijing on Sunday, a week ahead of the opening ceremony of the quadrennial games.

The country’s lone bet will be accompanied by his father Kelly and Philippine Ski and Snowboard Federation president Jim Palomar Apelar. Coach Will Gregorak will fly to Beijing a few days later.

“We are seeking the inspiration of the Filipino people to pray for Asa Miller. We wish him all the best,” said Ramirez during yesterday’s online People Sports Conversations show.

“It’s nice to see someone from a tropical country like ours participating in a winter competition, it’s a proud moment,” he added.

“We’re lucky to have Asa Miller,” Tolentino said.

Ramirez said they allotted P3.3 million to fund the Beijing campaign, and they commend Miller and his parents for being self-sufficient during his journey to the Winter Games.

“I have to commend and congratulate Asa Miller and his parents for raising their own funds and being self-sufficient,” said Ramirez.

Miller’s giant slalom is set Feb. 18 at the Xiaohaituo Alpine Skiing Field in Yanqing District.