AIDA PH Freediving Team: Meet Irene
We caught up with each member of the AIDA Philippines Freediving Team to get a glimpse into their minds during their competition schedule. Despite their hectic routines, they generously spared us a few minutes to share their thoughts on the process.
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In this exclusive interview, Irene Villaflor takes us through her incredible journey from a non-swimmer gripped by fear to becoming a national record holder and a respected athlete in the world of freediving. Join us as we dive into Irene's preparation process, her motivations, and her quest for success in the upcoming world championship. Get ready to be inspired by her dedication, resilience, and unwavering passion for the sport.
Photo By: Mark Dizon
Pool Training and Rituals
Irene is no stranger to hard work and dedication. In her quest to excel in the upcoming world championship, Irene shares some insights into her rigorous preparation process. Pool training takes center stage, with Irene diving into the water at least 3-5 times a week. But that's not all—she also incorporates daily lung stretching and dry static exercises into her routine, ensuring she's primed and ready for the challenges that lie ahead.
Photo By: Raymond del Rosario / Sanghinga
Overcoming Fear, Finding Passion
Irene's journey into the world of competitive freediving is nothing short of remarkable. A non-swimmer plagued by a fear of the deep sea, Irene defied the odds and embraced the sport that would change her life forever. Encouragement from a dear friend propelled her to take her first dive in November 2018 during a "clean-up drive" in Anilao, Batangas. That fateful day marked a turning point as Irene experienced the surreal feeling of being submerged in the water's depths. The calmness and tranquility beneath the surface captured her heart, igniting a passion for freediving that would become her solace and escape from the stresses of everyday life.
Driven by a desire to deepen her understanding and skills, Irene embarked on a journey of continuous learning, undertaking monthly courses to expand her knowledge of freediving. As her expertise grew, she felt compelled to share her experiences with others, leading her to become a certified freediving instructor. Just a few months after this significant milestone, Irene made the bold decision to enter her first freediving competition—the Manila Pool Open 2020. Little did she know, this event would mark the beginning of her triumphs as a freediving athlete, propelling her towards national recognition.
A Rising Star
The Manila Pool Open 2020 was Irene's debut competition, and it proved to be a turning point in her career. Despite limited time for preparation, Irene's dedication and the unwavering support of her competent and competitive team paid off. The results surpassed her wildest dreams, as she emerged as the Overall Champion Female, Best Newcomer Female, overall best in STA and national records in DYNB and DYN. Irene's success in the pool laid the foundation for her future endeavors, fostering a love for competition in both pool and depth disciplines.
Unveiling the Multifaceted Irene
While Irene's passion for freediving takes center stage, there is more to this remarkable athlete outside the water. When she's not gliding through the depths, she channels her inner mermaid as a certified mermaid instructor under the Mermaid Federation Internationale. But that's not all—Irene's impressive versatility extends beyond the enchanting realm of mermaids. In her everyday life, she dons the role of a doctor, an obstetrician and gynecologist, dedicated to the safe delivery of babies and the well-being of women. Furthermore, Irene's talents extend to the world of dance, having been a member of a dance troop, and she once showcased her skills as a soccer player during her time in med school.
Photo By: Raymond del Rosario / Sanghinga
Honoring the Flag
As a national athlete representing her country in the world championship, Irene feels a deep sense of honor and pride. She recognizes the privilege of carrying her nation's flag onto the global stage and acknowledges the mix of thrill and nervousness that comes with this responsibility.
Chasing Dreams
Irene's motivation for participating in the championship is rooted in her desire to be among the first to represent her country and showcase her skills on the world stage. With unyielding determination, she aspires to push her limits and leave a lasting impression, both as an individual athlete and as a representative of her nation.
Photo By: Raymond del Rosario / Sanghinga
Finding Equilibrium
Preparing for a world championship comes with its fair share of challenges. For Irene, the main obstacle lies in time management, as she balances the demands of being a freediver, instructor, and athlete with the responsibilities of her medical profession. Living a double life requires careful coordination and unwavering dedication.
When it comes to balancing the physical demands of freediving training with the need to avoid injury and burnout, Irene emphasizes the importance of listening to her body. She never pushes herself beyond her limits, ensuring that training remains a fulfilling outlet rather than a source of stress. By prioritizing her well-being, Irene maintains a healthy equilibrium between physical exertion and self-care.
Photo By: Raymond del Rosario / Sanghinga
A Supportive Network
Irene's teammates play a vital role in her journey. Their unwavering support and valuable advice help Irene refine her skills and become the best version of herself. Training together and sharing their experiences, they form a tight-knit community that celebrates each other's successes and provides a shoulder to lean on during challenging times.
Photo From: IG / @mariazosa__
Performing at Her Best
Regardless of the competition's outcome, Irene's ultimate goal is to deliver her best performance. Free from expectations, she aims to achieve "white cards"—a symbol of success and validation in the world of freediving. Irene's unwavering commitment to giving her all in the competition sets the stage for an exhilarating and memorable experience.
Thanking the Supporters
In a heartfelt message, Irene expresses her gratitude to all the current and future supporters of her team. Their unwavering encouragement and belief in her abilities serve as a constant source of inspiration, driving her to new heights in her freediving journey.
Photo By: Raymond del Rosario / Sanghinga
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