Filipina Rower Joanie Delgaco Makes History, Qualifies for Olympics

In a historic moment for Philippine sports, rower Joanie Delgaco has secured her ticket to the Olympics, becoming the first Filipina to qualify for the prestigious event in rowing.

Delgaco’s remarkable achievement came after she finished fourth in the Final A of the 2024 World Rowing Asian and Oceanian Olympic Qualification Regatta singles sculls in Chungju, South Korea. With a time of seven minutes and 49.39 seconds, she secured her spot in the Olympics by finishing within the top five.

The competition was fierce, with Uzbekistan’s Anna Prakaten taking the top spot with a time of 7:31.28. Japan’s Shijo Yonekawa and Iran’s Fatemeh Mojallal Topraghghale claimed the second and third spots, respectively. Delgaco’s determination and hard work paid off as she made history for her country.

In an interview with Radyo Pilipinas 2, Delgaco expressed her gratitude for the support of her team and the overwhelming feeling of achieving such a significant milestone. She reflected on the challenges she faced and the progress she has made in her sport.

With her fourth-place finish, Delgaco joins a prestigious group of Filipino athletes who have already qualified for the Paris Games, including pole vaulter EJ Obiena, boxers Nesthy Petecio, Aira Villegas, and Eumir Marcial, gymnasts Carlos Yulo, Aleah Finnegan, and Levi Ruivivar, and weightlifters John Ceniza, Vanessa Sarno, and Elreen Ando.

The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) also celebrated Delgaco’s historic achievement, highlighting her as the first Filipina rowing Olympian. This momentous occasion is a testament to Delgaco’s dedication and perseverance in her sport, inspiring future generations of Filipino athletes.