The Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) is exploring the possibility of recruiting Fil-British gymnast Jake Jarman for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, aiming to build on the success of double gold medalist Carlos Yulo.
GAP chief Cynthia Carrion revealed plans to reach out to Jarman and his family during the Olympians’ homecoming parade in Manila. Jarman, whose mother is Cebuana, previously lived in the Philippines as a child.
Carrion emphasized that the decision rests on Jarman and his parents. “I have to talk first to his mother that she agrees, and to Jake himself that he agrees. Because the officials of Jake Jarman told me that unless the father and the mother and Jake Jarman do not agree, wala. They have to agree also,” Carrion explained in an ABS-CBN News report.
In discussions with British gymnastics officials, Carrion learned that Great Britain would only release Jarman if he and his family wish to represent the Philippines. “They said, ‘we will not release him because we spent a lot for him… But if he and his mother insist on it, then we can release him,'” she shared.
Carrion is hopeful that Jarman will reconsider, noting her open invitation for him to visit the Philippines again.