Cris Nievarez' QF finish in Tokyo Games 'beyond expectations', says rowing chief

Cris Nievarez's quarterfinals exit in the Tokyo Olympics was just a glimpse of what the young Filipino rower can accomplish in the future.

Philippine Rowing Association (PRA) president Patrick Gregorio stressed that the paddler — at only 21 years old — exceeded what was expected of him.

"His performance is beyond expectations. Commendable," Gregorio told GMA News Online in a message just moments after Nievarez finished fifth in the quarterfinals of men's single sculls.

"Great potential for this young man."

Gregorio shared that although Nievarez was unable to progress past the quarters, it still stands as the best finish by any Filipino rower in the Summer Games.

Nievarez was the third rower to make it to the Olympics after his coach Ed Maerina and Benjie Tolentino achieved the feat in the 1988 Seoul and 2000 Sydney, respectively.

But neither Maerina and Tolentino were able to reach the quarterfinals stage.

Gregorio said they will now set their sights on the Vietnam Southeast Asian Games, the schedule of which is still indefinite since its recent postponement, and the 2022 Asian Games.

"At 21 years old, with better and focused training here and abroad, Cris will really improve," Gregorio stressed.

Meanwhile, Nievarez could still end his Tokyo campaign on a high note as he will compete in semifinals C/D, which will help determine his final placing.

—JMB, GMA News