Filipino-British gymnast and Olympic bronze medalist Jake Jarman recently received a touching letter from his former preschool teacher in Cebu, Philippines.
The letter which was posted on the Facebook page of SageCebu Sage Prep Schoolhouse, began with a nostalgic reflection.
“LETTER FROM A TEACHER TO AN OLYMPIC BRONZE MEDALLIST,” the letter addressed to Jake.
It began with, “Dear Jake, Remember those days in Sage & Cambridge (Lahug) Cebu preschool?”
The Pinay teacher, identified as Anne Gallo-Sim, reminisced about Jake’s energetic and enthusiastic nature even as a young child.
“Back then, you were always full of energy packed in a petite frame. But your mind and heart were b-i-i-i-g beyond measure. I am so proud of you! Keep up your hard work and achievements!” she wrote, expressing her pride and admiration for her former student.
Jarman, born in England to a British father, came with a half-Filipino heritage through his mother, Anna, who hails from Cebu. Despite being born and raised in the UK, Jake spent part of his early childhood in Cebu, living there from ages three to five.
In a 2017 interview with The Philippine STAR, he fondly recalled his time in the Visayan region and the close bond he maintains with his Cebuano family.
Jarman’s connection to the Philippines extends beyond his heritage. He is also good friends with Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo, having trained together at a British gymnastics center in Lilleshall after Carlos parted ways with his Japanese coach, as reported by sports news site SPIN.
Jake’s recent achievement at the 2024 Paris Olympics further solidified his gymnastics career as he secured the bronze medal in the men’s floor exercise event, and stood on the podium alongside Carlos, who made history by winning gold.
Despite being fierce competitors on the Olympic mat, the possibility of Jake competing for the Philippines in the future has sparked excitement among Filipino sports fans.
He is reportedly considering representing his mother’s homeland at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Cynthia Carrion, president of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP), shared the news with STAR, stating, “Next Olympics, he wants to play for the Philippines. So we’ll seek FIG’s (International Gymnastics Federation) permission.”
“I will write a letter and we’ll see if FIG says yes or no. Ang importante may Philippine passport siya,” she added.
