Top Fil-Am athletes who are making headlines in 2024
Photos from racerbia/Instagram, leekiefer/Instagram, lebijungruivivar/Instagram
Filipinos have been making significant strides in the world of sports.
Recently, at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the Philippines achieved a remarkable feat by securing two gold medals in less than 24 hours, thanks to the outstanding performances of the nation’s “golden boy,” gymnast Carlos Yulo.
Years prior, Manny Pacquiao’s boxing matches became iconic national events, where streets emptied and the entire nation came to a standstill.
As National Sports Day approaches on Oct. 16, it’s the perfect occasion for fans, families and athletes from all sports to come together and celebrate their favorite athletic events.
And what better way to honor this day than by recognizing the Filipino American athletes who have made their mark on the international stage?
Bianca Bustamante
At a young age, Fil-Am racer Bianca Bustamante became the first Filipina to join McLaren’s Development Program. She also secured a second-place finish at the F1 Academy Race in Miami.
Bustamante returned to the Philippines in August for the “Race to Inspire” event, sparking passion for motorsports among Filipinos. The event’s overwhelming success showcased the growing local fanbase for the trailblazing driver, who was also featured in Google’s “Most Searched” list for 2023.
View this post on Instagram
Lee Kiefer
Fencer Lee Kiefer, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in women’s individual foil, continues to inspire with her triumphs at both the 2020 Tokyo and the 2024 Paris Olympics.
With roots tracing back to Tagum City in Davao del Norte, Kiefer has become a multi-awarded athlete.
View this post on Instagram
Logan Edra
Logan Edra, representing Team USA in the first-ever Olympic breakdancing competition, made history as “breaking” debuted in Paris.
Although she didn’t achieve the desired result, Edra’s vision transcended personal success. She aims to introduce audiences worldwide to breakdancing as an “art-sport,” much like skateboarding.
The Fil-Am Gymnasts
The 2024 Paris Olympics became historic with the participation of Emma Malabuyo, Levi Jung-Ruivivar and Aleah Finnegan—the first Filipino American women gymnasts to represent the Philippines in over 60 years.
View this post on Instagram
Lauren Hoffman
Track and field star Lauren Hoffman made waves as she sprinted towards success in the Paris Olympics.
Known for her record-breaking achievements, Hoffman holds a place in Duke University’s record books, thanks to her incredible 55.67-second time in the 400-meter hurdles.
View this post on Instagram
Gia Pergolini
At just 20 years old, Paralympic swimmer Gia Pergolini captured gold in the 100-meter backstroke S13 at the 2024 Paralympics, with an impressive time of 1:04.93.
This marks her second time competing in the Paralympics, further solidifying her status as a world-class athlete.
Dylan Harper
Rutgers University’s basketball star Dylan Harper is already being touted as one of the top picks for the 2025 NBA Draft.
Ranked among the top men’s basketball recruits of the 2024 class, Harper has proven to be a force to be reckoned with on the court.
Jacob Bayla
Basketball player Jacob Bayla, a 6-foot-5 wing from Valley Christian High School in California, committed to the UP Fighting Maroons.
Now competing in the UAAP, Bayla’s decision to join the league is a testament to his dedication to his Filipino roots and basketball ambitions.
View this post on Instagram
These athletes embody the spirit of Filipino excellence, not only making history but also inspiring future generations to dream big.
Want stories like this delivered straight to your inbox? Stay informed. Stay ahead. Subscribe to InqMORNING
