By: Portia Doragos
CAPAS, Tarlac — Spotted at the UAAP Season 87 Swimming Championships here at New Clark City Aquatics Center was none other than national swimmer Xiandi Chua, a prominent figure in Philippine swimming.
Chua, who captured a gold medal and set a new national record in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games, returned to the New Clark City Aquatic Center—not to compete but to cheer.
She was there to support her younger brother, Ethan Chua, representing UP, as well as her former La Salle Green Tankers.
Despite competing in only one full season of UAAP swimming, Chua left a significant mark on the collegiate scene.
In Season 85, she earned both the Women’s Individual Athlete of the Year and Most Valuable Player honors.
This achievement came despite the challenges of the pandemic and her commitments to the Philippine National Team, which prevented her from joining Season 86.
Her brief stint in the UAAP pushed her boundaries as a swimmer.
“I think participating in the UAAP forced me to explore my options in different events because I had to compete in seven events. There were events where I had to swim outside of my forte, so I had to train for that,” Chua shared.
The rigorous competition also honed her mental resilience.
“It made me a better and smarter swimmer,” she said. “It taught me how to handle back-to-back events, which helped me become mentally tougher.”
Looking ahead, Chua has a packed schedule for the remainder of 2024.
She is set to compete at the World Championships in Budapest this December and is gearing up for another SEA Games appearance next year.
Despite her impressive track record, Chua emains grounded and focused on her journey.
“I don’t want to put that sort of pressure to win any medal, but the goal is to go out there and give my best and enjoy representing the country with my teammates,” she said.
