FILIPINO speed skater Peter Joseph Groseclose etched his name in history by securing the Philippines’ first-ever medal in a World Cup event.
The Winter Olympian competed against 47 of the world’s top skaters and bagged the bronze medal in the Men’s 500m Short Track Speed Skating event at the ISU Junior World Cup 2 held in Bormio, Italy.
The Philippine Skating Union (PHSU) hailed Groseclose’s victory as a monumental milestone, marking a personal achievement and a breakthrough for Philippine skating.
“The future of Philippine speed skating is brighter than ever—this is only the beginning. Congratulations, Peter! The nation is cheering for you!,” the PHSU said in a post on its official page.
Korea’s Koo Minseung claimed the gold medal, while Canada’s Victor Chartrand took the silver. Groseclose’s bronze cemented his status as the first Filipino to win a medal in an ISU World Cup event.
Groseclose’s journey to this triumph was not without challenges.
At the Winter Youth Olympics, he narrowly missed a podium finish, placing fifth after an incident left him with injuries to his foot and skate boot.
Meanwhile, PHSU also celebrated another achievement, applauding Hans Matthew Buemio for qualifying for the 2025 ISU Junior World Short Track Speed Skating Championships in Calgary, Canada.
“Big congratulations to Hans Buemio for earning a second slot for the Philippines at the ISU Junior World Short Track Speed Skating Championships 2025 in Calgary, Canada!” the PHSU announced.
“As the first homegrown skater to qualify for this prestigious event, Hans is making history and inspiring us all. Your hard work has truly paid off—a proud moment for the nation!” the organization added.