Margielyn Didal wins gold in Asian Games street skate competition

The Philippines will take home another gold from the 2018 Asian Games, as Margielyn Arda Didal came out victorious in the women’s street skate competition at the JSC Skate Park in Palembang, Indonesia last August 29.

Didal, who is a daughter of a sidewalk vendor of kwek-kwek or eggs fried in orange flour batter, expressed her joy saying that she did her best during the tournament. She also added that, hopefully, people can now see that skateboarding is a “serious sport” that can be fun as well.

Didal dominated the game with a total score of 30.4 points. Meanwhile, second placer Isa Kaya from Japan managed to draw 25.0 points.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Butch Ramirez congratulated Didal in a statement saying that the country is grateful for her effort and sacrifices. Ramirez also added that a hero’s welcome will be arranged for Didal.

Meanwhile, Philippine Olympic Committee President Ricky Vargas praised Didal for her fortitude.

“I am blessed to witness this great event by a young girl, a carpenter’s daughter and former street kid, who did so well. Because of her hard work and belief in herself she is now where she is,” he said.

Didal will receive up to P6 million in cash incentives from the government and private patrons, which she said she will give to her mother to set up a small business.

via GMA News Online