Cover Learn more about Para archer Agustina Bantiloc (Photo: Ditta Sandico)
Learn more about Para archer Agustina Bantiloc (Photo: Ditta Sandico)
1 / 1
Para archer Agustina Bantiloc ends her Paris 2024 Paralympics run after a loss to Brazil’s Jane Karla Gogel. Here’s what to know about the inspiring Paralympian
At an age when most athletes have hung up their gear, Agustina Bantiloc stepped onto the world’s biggest stage for the first time, debuting at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. She is proof that it’s never too late to chase a dream. Her story is not just about personal achievement; it’s about breaking boundaries and inspiring others to defy the odds.
Here are seven things to know at the moment about this remarkable athlete.
In case you missed it: Why are Filipina designer Ditta Sandico’s ‘Heritage in Motion’ designs a perfect fit for the Philippine Paralympic team?
Paralympic debut at 56
At 56, Agustina Bantiloc first appeared at the Paralympics, representing the Philippines in archery. She was also chosen as one of the country’s flag bearers during the opening ceremony.
Season-best performance
Above Agustina Bantiloc in action (Screencapture: YouTube/Paralympic Games)
Agustina Bantiloc in action (Screencapture: YouTube/Paralympic Games)
1 / 1
In the archery ranking round, Agustina Bantiloc delivered her best performance of the season, scoring 618 points. This marked a significant personal milestone, showcasing her ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
Placed 28th in the Women’s Individual Compound Open
Agustina Bantiloc finished 28th in the Women’s Individual Compound Open. While her ranking placed her in the lower half of the competition, it underscored the progress she has made in a relatively short period—a commendable achievement for a Paralympic debutant.
Related: 6 Filipino paralympic athletes competing in the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games
A challenging knockout round
Above Agustina Maximo Bantiloc (Photo: PDAO Baguio)
Above Jane Karla Gogel (Photo: Instagram/@worldarchery)
Agustina Maximo Bantiloc (Photo: PDAO Baguio)
1 / 2
As the 28th seed, Agustina Bantiloc faced a steep challenge in the knockout round, where she was matched against the 5th seed, Jane Karla Gogel of Brazil. This contest was more than just a battle of skill—it was a test of Bantiloc’s determination to push beyond the limits and continue her journey in the sport.
Unfortunately, she fell short against Gogel, ending her campaign in the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
A jack of other trades
According to the International Paralympic Committee website, Agustina Bantiloc initially represented the Philippines in Para powerlifting before transitioning to Para archery, a sport she was introduced to by coach Arthur Tampua. She has also competed nationally in Para athletics.
An inspiration to others
Beyond her personal achievements, Agustina Bantiloc aims to inspire fellow para-archers and the broader para-sports community. Her journey in archery is a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with courage, one can break barriers and uplift others along the way.
NOW READ
Filipino swimmer Angel Otom shares her excitement for her first Paralympic Games
Asia’s Paralympic athletes exemplify the unyielding power of the human spirit
Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is a digital editor at Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.
