In what was supposed to be a proud moment representing the Philippines at the Paris Olympics, Filipino golfers Dottie Ardina and Bianca Pagdanganan found themselves grappling with more than just the competition. Ardina expressed deep frustration over the lack of official uniforms provided by the country’s sports authorities, highlighting a sense of neglect that left her feeling isolated on the world stage.
In a video shared before the third round of the women’s golf competition at Le Golf National, Ardina was visibly upset as she attached the Philippine logo to her shirt with double-sided tape. “What kind of Olympics is this?” Ardina quipped in Filipino, half-jokingly. “Where are those who were supposed to provide us with uniforms? We’re here fighting for our country, but even our basic needs are unmet.”
2 atleta natin sa Paris olympics pinay golfers na sina Bianca Pagdanganan at Dottie Ardina.. nagmukhang kaawa-awa dahil sila lang ang walang maayos na uniform.. nasaan ang pondo sa atleta? panoorin si Dottie sa kanyang karanasan⛳️🏌️ pic.twitter.com/kyhd8YYAIZ
— Ely Saludar (@media_ely) August 9, 2024
Ardina revealed that she had waited two days, hoping the necessary gear would arrive, but it never did. This situation forced her to use duct tape to cover sponsors on her golf clubs, a makeshift solution to comply with Olympic regulations prohibiting sponsorship displays.
The incident has raised concerns about the support provided to the country’s top athletes, especially in a prestigious event like the Olympics. While other officials were seen celebrating with the nation’s medalists, Ardina’s experience underscores the ongoing challenges faced by athletes who often rely on private support and their own resources to represent the country.
“We even had to buy adhesive. My God. Isn’t it embarrassing? With so many people around, we’re the only ones without uniforms,” Ardina lamented in the video, her disappointment evident.
As the competition progresses, the resolve of these athletes to represent their country remains strong, but the episode has highlighted the need for better support and preparation for those who compete on the world stage.