TOKYO—Cris Nievarez’s future in Olympic rowing began the moment his campaign at the Tokyo Olympics ended on Sunday morning.
Nievarez was fifth in his quarterfinal-round group to paddle out of medal contention.
Only 21 and in his first Olympics, Nievarez has an entire Olympic future ahead of him.
“This will be a major learning experience for Cris,” said Magnum Membrere, a former college basketball star who turned to rowing and is now treasurer of the Philippines Rowing Association.
“He’s young and he’s determined,” added Membrere of Nievarez, the only Southeast Asian in the men’s single sculls event.
“Malaking bagay ang experience na nakuha ko dito sa Tokyo Olympics, sabi nga ni Sir Magnum, learning experience,” Nievarez said. “Malaking dahilan ito para pagbubutihin ko pa at aasamin na makarating ako sa Paris [2024 Olympics].”
“Nakita ko na rin ang mga strength ng mga kalaban at alam ko na kung anong aspects ang kailangan i-improve,” he added.
Nievarez was the first Filipino on the block in these unique Olympics and didn’t disappoint on Friday. He earned a quarterfinal round seat that set off the Philippine campaign to a comfortable start.