Of pins and beakers: Klasmeyt’s striking formulaDate Posted: July 1, 2024 at 02:11 PM In a nation where sports like basketball and volleyball dominate the headlines, it takes a special kind of passion to excel in a less mainstream discipline. Meet Jelena Grace Gella, a third-year Chemical Engineering student at Adamson University who has defied conventions by making a name for herself in the world of bowling. Her journey from the lanes of local bowling alleys in her native of Muntinlupa to the international stage is a testament to her unwavering dedication and exceptional talent. But Grace's story is more than just one of sporting success; it is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of life.
From splashing to striking and formulating Grace's journey into the world of bowling is deeply rooted in her family's passion for the sport. From a young age, she was introduced to the lanes by her father, who was not only a fervent bowler himself but also an influential figure in shaping her love for the game. Together with her siblings, Grace spent countless hours at the bowling alley, soaking in the atmosphere and honing her skills under her father's guidance. “Nadala [ni Dad] from the office, tapos yung mga kapatid ko naglalaro rin so sumasama lang din ako, but eventually, it became weekly hanggang sa yun na nga naging sport ko,” Grace shared in an interview with AdU Touchstone. What began as a simple family pastime soon evolved into a serious pursuit for her. As she grew older, her talent and dedication to the sport became increasingly apparent, propelling her towards greater opportunities. Her father was her first coach as she slowly joined local competitions, but her natural aptitude for bowling eventually caught the attention of national mentors and selectors, eventually leading to her inclusion in the Philippine National Bowling Team. However, it came as a surprise when she revealed that bowling was not her first sport, but swimming. “Funny enough na nag-start ako mag-swimming because they have a program before sa Star Mall Alabang through yung program ni Coach Eric Buhain,” Grace said, her mother even adding she was even almost recruited by Buhain himself back then. “She was swimming talaga na yung level niya is papunta na dun sa level na talagang pwede ka nang magcompete na. Yung high school siya actually, swimming ang sport na ginamit niya. So, nag-compete siya din ng division ng mga swimming,” Mrs. Gella said. Grace even reached the point of being a two-sport athlete, but she eventually chose to pursue bowling, making Adamson alum and world bowling legend Paeng Nepumuceno’s achievements as her inspiration. Apparently, fate had another “funny” surprise for her in another sport involving water. Grace's remarkable achievements in bowling have garnered widespread recognition, both locally and internationally. Most notably, she was honored at the prestigious Philippine Sports Commission's Women in Sports Awards Night, where her outstanding contributions to the sport were celebrated alongside other female athletes and fellow Adamsonian, Philippine Softball icon Ana Santiago. Among her many accolades, winning bronze in the women's doubles event at the IBF World Bowling Championships in Kuwait last year stands out as a testament to her skill and perseverance on the global stage.
Timeline: On the rise As an athlete, despite being young as she is, she has already crafted a timeline for her potential career in bowling. “Ngayon kasi, yung next goal ko is yung Asian Indoor [Championships] kasi nakapasok na ako sa [Philippine] team last year... Nanalo na [rin] ako ng medal last year so gusto ko official na tournament talaga like Southeast Asian Games, Asian Games ang masalihan ko,” she explained. “This year, Asian Indoor, sana makapasok, per may point system po kami for this year and part is Malaysia Open, Singapore Open, Thailand Open,” she furthered. Despite her success on the lanes, Grace remains committed to her academic pursuits. Balancing the demands of chemical engineering with the rigorous training schedule of a national athlete is no easy feat, but she takes it all in stride. She credits her family's unwavering support for helping her manage her time effectively and stay focused on her goals. This was seen how her mother has been with her in her competitions, even driving her pr picking her up at times to or from the Philippine Sports Commission for her training. “One time, galing kami ng Malaysia, parang Asian youth yun eh, then nagkataon na graduation ball nila, ng senior high school. So, pagbaba namin ang aeroplano ng tanghali, nag-check-in na kami from NAIA 3 to Sofitel sa Pasay tapos diretso na sya sa grad ball,” Mrs. Gella said, sharing one of her unforgettable anecdotes with Grace. Meanwhile, education remains to be a priority butGrace was given enough leeway to fully balance her academics and sports training. “When it comes sa learning niya, alam kong hindi niya papabayaan. Kasi, when they were starting, ang rule is, before you can go sa training, kailangan tapos lahat ng assignments and then, ang ceiling ko lang sa grade sa kanila dahil nasa sports sila, ayaw ko nang may line of seven. Hindi ko hihigiin that yung go talaga na mag-honor,” Mrs. Gella furthered. Grace's journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. As she continues to excel academically and athletically, she inspires aspiring athletes and students. With her sights set on future competitions and her degree in chemical engineering, there's no doubt that Grace is a force to be reckoned with on and off the lanes. Chemical engineering is not just a field of study for Grace; it is a passion she hopes to pursue alongside her bowling career. Despite the challenges of juggling her academic and athletic responsibilities, she remains determined to succeed in both areas. Her disciplined approach to time management and her unwavering dedication to her craft set her apart as a true role model for aspiring athletes and scholars alike. She even plans to take medicine if given a chance, but that seems to be a whole new story if it comes into fruition. Grace's achievements in bowling have not only brought her personal satisfaction but also pride to her family, the University and the country. As she continues to represent the Philippines on the international stage, she carries with her the hopes and dreams of her fellow athletes and supporters. Her success serves as a shining example of what can be accomplished through hard work, determination, and a steadfast commitment to one's goals. Her remarkable balancing act as an Adamson chemical engineering student and a member of the Philippine national bowling team epitomizes the pursuit of excellence in both academia and athletics. Looking to the future, she remains focused on her aspirations both on and off the lanes. With her eyes set on upcoming competitions and her degree in chemical engineering, she is poised to make even greater strides in the years to come. Whether she's knocking down pins or solving complex equations, one thing is certain: Jelena Grace Gella is a force to be reckoned with, and what we are currently seeing is just the tip beginning of this Falcons’ rise to greater heights.
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