Team Philippines became the third team booted out of Physical: Asia after falling against home bet South Korea in a dramatic finish.
Newcomer Justin Hernandez could not get it done in the sack throw as Team Philippines became the third team booted out of Physical: Asia, after a dramatic battle with South Korea in elimination.
In Episode 7 of the Netflix series, Hernandez, who was inserted into the lineup after Manny Pacquiao’s exit, was the Philippines’ representative against South Korea’s Amotti and Australian strongman Eddie Williams.
The Aussie dominated the sack throw even as the weight continued to grow heavier as the competition went by.
As the strength drained from both Amotti and Hernandez, Team South Korea had their breaths held as Hernandez tried to hurdle the sack once more to push the issue on Amotti and keep Team Philippines fighting another day.
However, after more than 120 laps, Hernandez’ last gasp throw could not get over the hump. As time ran out for Team Philippines, Amotti and the rest of Team South Korea celebrated.
With the Filipino Crossfitter unable throw it over to the other side, South Korea finished second in the Group A competition, breaking a tie with the Filipinos and therefore eliminating the Philippines smack in the middle of the competition.
Despite getting eliminated, Hernandez was welcomed back by Team Philippines with open arms. Team members Mark Striegl and team captain Justin Coveney immediately went to console the Crossfitter.
“I actually don’t have any regrets because I know that I did my best. But what I couldn’t handle, and what was really hard for me to handle was letting down my team,” said Hernandez in the episode.
Regardless, Coveney had nothing but respect for his teammate, even as they crashed out of the competition shortly after the exit of boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, who was the team’s first captain before needing to exit for other commitments.
“Justin really showed how much of a beast he actually is, and again epitomizing what that Filipino fighting spirit is. I have a great sense of respect and pride, not only for Justin, but for all the athletes of Team Philippines,” said Coveney.
The Philippines had earlier survived elimination when they triumphed over Thailand in the Death Match.
In Episode 8, Group B saw Turkiye finish last in the Death Match for their group and were eliminated from the competition. They join Southeast Asian countries Thailand, Philippines, and Indonesia among teams that are already eliminated.
At the end of Episode 9, three teams were facing elimination: Mongolia, South Korea, and Australia in the 1,200-kg pillar push.
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Luisa Morales is a sports writer with a special interest in promoting women’s sports.
Her coverage highlights include the UAAP, PVL, Southeast Asian Games, and the FIBA World Cup. She also follows Alex Eala, the Philippine women’s national football team, and mixed martial arts.