Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion is leaving the 20th Asian Games in Japan earlier than planned after the death of her husband, Jerry Rollin, on Monday following a battle with cancer.
Carrion, a key figure in Philippine gymnastics for years, confirmed the heartbreaking news while in Japan for the continental sports meet.
She said she would return immediately to the Philippines to be with her family, cutting short her stay at the Asian Games.
“If you don’t see me, I’m out. I’m going home today. I am supposed to be here all the time, but I cannot because my husband just died today with cancer, so I’m flying back tonight,” said Carrion in an interview with a member of the POC Media Pool.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Carrion made sure to leave a message for the Philippine gymnastics delegation competing in Nagoya, urging the athletes to give their best in her absence.
“I wish them all luck. I told them to win a medal for me,” she said.
“Thank you so much, that’s my message for you, my colleague in sports who I loved very much.”
Carrion’s departure leaves the Philippine gymnastics team to carry on with its Asian Games campaign, led by men’s stars Carlos Yulo and Eldrew Yulo.
The men’s squad also features Zachary Nuñez, Ace De Leon, and Miguel Besana, while Haylee Garcia, Kylee Kvamme, Lauren Supnet, Chiara Andre, and Levi Jung Ruivivar comprise the women’s team.
Carrion’s immediate focus, however, will be on returning home to be with her family following the loss of her husband.
