NACHON RATCHASIMA, Thailand - Covering the exploits of our athletes for nearly two decades, I always thought how it was to be in the middle of a sporting spectacle that allows ordinary men and women to display their own brand of heroism.

In the 24th Southeast Asian Games being held here in Thailand, as team manager of the basketball team, I get to be on the side of the athletes.

I try to live the life of a national athlete and just be in the midst of watching the gallantry of our athletes in motion.

It took the country a while before we nailed that elusive first gold courtesy of the fearless Joey Barba in cycling (downhill).

Win or lose, as we have been emphasizing to our basketball team, what is important is giving it everything we've got.

Go Team Philippines.