Teen Weightlifter's Rapid Rise to Palarong Pambansa 2026 After Just One Year
In an inspiring story of athletic prowess, fifteen-year-old Azleah Genede S. Ambray has carved a fast track to the 2026 Palarong Pambansa, achieving this milestone after shifting to weightlifting just a year ago. The incoming Grade 11 student at Davao City National High School began her serious training journey at the age of 14, demonstrating remarkable dedication and skill in a short timeframe.
Gold Medal Victory and Regional Recognition
Ambray's breakthrough came when she clinched the gold medal at the Davao Region Athletic Association (Davraa) Meet 2026. This victory not only showcased her talent but also secured her a coveted spot in the Palarong Pambansa-bound regional delegation. Reflecting on her rapid progress, Ambray shared, "Actually, it's very recent. I started playing sports seriously at 14, so about a year." Her journey into weightlifting was driven by a search for identity, with her father—a three-time Palaro gold medalist in boxing from 1996 to 1998—playing a pivotal role in encouraging her to pursue sports.
Family Support and Mental Toughness
Despite early doubts, Ambray leaned heavily on her family, coaches, and teammates to build confidence. She emphasized her father's influence, stating, "Siya gyud ang nag-encourage sa ako, reminding me kaya nako even when I was unsure (He encouraged me, reminding me I can do it even when I was unsure)." This support system helped her navigate the challenges of a new sport, where she discovered that weightlifting is not just about physical strength. "I didn't expect to end up in weightlifting. But I realized it's not just about strength—it's about discipline, focus and mental toughness," she explained, highlighting the psychological aspects of the sport.
Structured Training and Logistical Adaptations
Under the guidance of head coach Ronnie S. Guliman, Ambray and her team follow a rigorous six-day weekly training program designed to foster steady gains in technique and strength. Guliman detailed their approach: "We implement progressive training. If they lift 30 kilograms this week, next week should be 33 to 35." However, the team has faced logistical hurdles due to rising fuel and commodity costs. To mitigate these challenges without disrupting training, coaches have streamlined operations by moving equipment to a single venue, effectively cutting travel time and expenses. Guliman affirmed their commitment, saying, "We stick to the original program. We don't want to miss training opportunities."
Readiness and Legacy Building
As weightlifting makes its debut in the Palarong Pambansa, Guliman rated the team's readiness at seven out of ten, anticipating strong competition from other regions. "We expect other regions to come prepared. We will do our best to become the first champions," he declared. For Ambray, the competition transcends mere medal counts. She aims to honor her father's legacy while forging her own path in the sport. "I feel like I'm continuing what he started. It makes me proud to carry that legacy while making my own name," she expressed, underscoring the personal significance of her athletic endeavors.
This story not only highlights Ambray's individual achievements but also sheds light on the broader context of youth sports development in the Philippines, where dedication, family support, and adaptive training strategies play crucial roles in nurturing young talents.
