WARM WELCOME. Coach Allen Aldrin Castañeda receives a plaque from Hipodromo Barangay Captain Ruperto Bacolod shortly after the motorcade and homecoming activity for the trainer of two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo, in front of the Barangay Hall on Monday (Aug. 26, 2024). Castañeda is also set to visit Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia on Tuesday (Aug. 27) at the Cebu City Hall. (Contributed photo)
CEBU CITY – Hipodromo, a village known before World War 2 for horseracing, on Monday, held a “hero’s welcome” for Allen Aldrin Castañeda, the coach of two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo.
Ruperto Bacolod, barangay captain of Hipodromo, led the people in holding a motorcade and homecoming activity for Castañeda who arrived Monday from Manila to celebrate his contribution to Yulo’s win with his village folks.
“I’m so happy seeing them again, my neighbors. I thank Barangay Hipodromo for this recognition,” Castañeda said in Cebuano when interviewed by the media.
Castañeda said he and Yulo are now enjoying an “off-season” vacation.
However, he revealed that they already preparing for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games.
The Cebuano coach recalled how his passion for gymnastics propelled him to what he achieved now, citing this sports discipline was his key to why he made it to college. (PNA)
