PARIS —
In the corridors under Bercy Arena, Emma Malabuyo prepared for a dream to come true. The UCLA gymnast felt the pulse of a full crowd. She saw the flag of the Philippines hanging in all corners of the stands. The Olympic rings were printed on every mat.
She fought back tears.
“I’m doing it,” she thought to herself, “I’m here.”
Malabuyo made her Olympic debut Sunday, competing in the all-around in qualifications at Bercy Arena. Her 51.099 score finished tied for the highest among the three Filipina gymnasts competing.