MANILA, Philippines – Rosegie Ramos, a 20-year-old from Zamboanga City, has been consistently lifting barbells that weigh more than three times her body weight every day. Her dedication and effort recently bore fruit when she secured a place in the 2024 Paris Olympics. This achievement came after her outstanding performance at the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Cup.
In an interview with the Inquirer, Ramos expressed her excitement and satisfaction, stating, “I have secured my spot. I knew I could make it to Paris if I remained in the top 10 after this tournament.” Her hard work and perseverance have paid off, propelling her to the prestigious global stage of the Olympics.
She secured her spot by claiming first in the women’s 49 kilograms Group B category, lifting 87 kg in the snatch and 103 kg in the clean and jerk, totaling 190 kg.
The ongoing Olympic qualifying event in Phuket, Thailand, from April 2 to April 11, stands as the final gateway to the illustrious French capital.
Ramos, reigning as the Asian junior champion in the women’s 49-kg division, only needed to maintain her current standing in the Summer Games rankings to secure her ticket to Paris. Presently, she holds the eighth position in the Olympic rankings after participating in five qualification tournaments.
Additional Olympians
In various international competitions, she achieved notable rankings. In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during the 2023 IWF World Championships, she secured seventh place. Similarly, in Hangzhou, China, at the 2023 Asian Games, she attained fifth place. Her performance in the Asian championships held in Jinju, South Korea, last year resulted in a ninth-place finish.
It is important to note that the top 10 lifters in each weight category will earn qualification for the Olympics.
“It’s all paid off. I’m heading to Paris,” exclaimed Ramos, reflecting on the rigorous training sessions she endured at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex under the watchful eye of coach Tony Agustin.
President of the Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas, Monico Puentevella, highlighted Agustin’s pivotal role in Ramos’ preparation, with Jeaneth Aro diligently managing her nutrition throughout the process.
Ramos has now joined a select group of Filipino athletes headed for Paris, including pole vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan, and boxers Eumir Marcial, Aira Villegas, and Nesthy Petecio.
“I am focused on reaching a certain level of performance that would put me on par with the top athletes in my weight category. I have been diligently training every day towards this goal and hope to achieve it at the Olympics,” Ramos commented.
