What do you do outside of training? I am a Graduate Landscape Architect at Enviro Links Design and a student at UC, completing an Honours degree in Landscape Architecture. In my spare time, I am usually out eating and trying different types of food or either at home binge watching TV shows.
Where do you draw your inspiration from and why? I draw my inspiration from my Grandmother in the Philippines. She is one of the most loving, humble and caring people I know, who manages to see the good in everyone. No matter what obstacle comes her way, she always manages to get through to make sure everything will be OK.
Do you have a saying or motto that you live your life by? I live by the famous bible verse Philippians 4:13, “I can do anything through Christ who gives me strength”. Whenever I’m in doubt or am struggling to do something, I always think of this verse and it always gets me through. Hence, why I have it tattooed on my chest.
TV show you secretly enjoy? I wouldn’t say secretly, but I love the TV show ‘Suits’. It is seriously just one of the best shows. If you’re after a show that has a mix of drama, comedy and something with a good twist, this is it! Just know, once you start, you won’t stop! Cliff-hangers will keep you going.
Why did you start doing muay thai? After playing a few years of Rugby League throughout high school, my Asian genetics simply didn’t cut it by the time I hit Year 11 (I was literally like a fly next to some of the big forwards in the team). So, I decided I was going to get back into martial arts after doing Taekwondo when I was young. Fortunately, my uncle Ysh introduced me to Muay Thai at a gym in Sydney. From then, I was hooked.
Describe the people you train with at Chopper? Metaphorically, it’s like the Fast and Furious crew. Chopper Muay Thai is like family. Everybody cares for each other and everybody works hard to craft their skills under Gaz’s guidance, and library of knowledge in the sport.
What is your favourite muay thai move or combo? The question mark kick!!