1st-time RP Olympic diver plunges into action – finally

MANILA, Philippines – The result could be over faster than the waiting. Rexel Ryan Fabriga sees action in the men’s 10m platform Friday but only with modest aspirations. Fabriga has been in Beijing since August 5, which means he's been sidelined for nearly 17 days. Judging by the competition and fellow Olympic diver Sheila Mae Perez’s earlier stint, Fabriga could only wish for a semifinal finish at best. Even the Philippines Amateur Swimming Association agreed. “He’s targeting the semifinals, like everyone else. But it’s a very tough competition, and he would also be contending against a Malaysian diver," PASA president Mark Joseph said. Malaysian divers are going to give Fabriga a run for his semifinal goal, with the bragging rights of being the best in Southeast Asia at stake. Perez also faced two Malaysians in the 3m springboard last week. The Filipina ranked lower than the two. Bryan Lomas of Malaysia is expected to contend for a medal in Fabriga’s event. – GMANews.TV