Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 25) — After taking home the country’s first medal in the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, taekwondo jin Patrick King Perez said he already has plans to level up his game — and a big part of it is mental training.
“Competing in this big competition, may factor rin po ang bashing or negative comments ng mga tao [Bashing or negative comments are also a factor],” Perez told CNN Philippines.
The 23-year-old said he turned those negative inputs into part of his motivation.
“I just focused on my goal and performed what I prepared for,” he said.
Perez advanced to a medal-contention match after a win over Prem Bahadur Limbu of Nepal.
In the semifinals, the poomsae jin went head-to-head with Chinese Taipei’s Ma Yun Zhong in events that combined both freestyle and recognized events.
Perez averaged 6.910 points while Ma led with 7.450 points to advance to the gold medal match against Kang Wanjin of South Korea.
Despite the loss, the Philippine bet showed no regrets after delivering the country’s first podium finish in the quadrennial tourney.
“Taipei is one of the powerhouse teams when it comes to poomsae,” Perez said. “I know I’ve prepared enough for this tourney and I have nothing to regret because I gave my all – my heart, my skill, my passion and love for this sport – and I hope I made my country proud.”
Perez revealed that he personally choreographed the routine he performed during his match with Ma, emphasizing that he wanted to showcase his own creativity.
For his upcoming competitions, Perez said he now aims to improve his stamina and strength apart from his mental preparations.
