The Paris 2024 Olympics may have concluded, but Filipinos continue to express pride and joy, especially with the remarkable achievements of athletes like Carlos Yulo, EJ Obiena, and Nesthy Petecio. However, Filipino victories in sports extend beyond Paris, and well into the global stage!
ICYMI, Islay Erika Bomogao has been crowned the World's No. 1 in the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA) for the 45kg female elite athlete category. Islay's ascent to the top spot is nothing short of astounding!
In a post from the Philippine Sports Commission congratulating Islay on her achievement, they highlighted that this recent victory follows her historic win as the *first* Filipina Muay Thai champion. She secured this title after defeating Sarah Kwa, Australia's Muay Thai state champion, in a thrilling match held in Kenwick, Australia.
"Saludo kami sa iyong husay! Pinatunayan mong #BidaAngBayaningManlalaro!" the PSC stated in their caption.
In an interview with the Muaythai Association of the Philippines (MAP), Islay emphasized the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone in order to succeed in a sport.
"Get out of your shell and discover yourself. Let us do away with too much use and dependence with modern gadgets and get real physical… No pain, no gain! Muaythai is a beautiful martial art, try it and see for yourself," she shared.
For Islay, Muaythai and martial arts are more than just physical training—they represent a lifestyle that fosters self-love, perseverance, and discipline. Embracing the sport wholeheartedly, she credits Muaythai with shaping her into a "happier person" with a strong and healthy physique, which she proudly calls the "new sexy."
Succeeding in a Male-Dominated Sport: Who is Islay Erika Bomogao?
Islay is an 18-year-old from Baguio City. She began her Muaythai journey at age 15 when she joined Team Lakay Gym, one of Asia's top mixed martial arts facilities.
"Basically, I started martial arts at the age of 15, I first trained at one of the top Mixed Martial Arts Gym in Asia, the Team Lakay Gym, then I started thriving in Muaythai when I was 16," Islay shared with MAP.
Despite her relatively short time in the sport, Islay quickly made a name for herself, securing gold medals at the 2017 Jincheon 1st World Youth Martial Arts Masterships in South Korea, and the 2018 International Federation of Muaythai Amateur (IFMA) Youth World Championships in Bangkok, Thailand.
For some, Muaythai might be a casual pursuit, but for Islay, it is a discipline that teaches perseverance, continuous learning, and resilience. Competing in a male-dominated arena, she has consistently faced challenges head-on, finding both empowerment and pride in every achievement, including sparring against male fighters.
