'Big sis' gone but she still inspires Philippine paddlers

Philippine women's table tennis players (from far left) Kheith Cruz, Jannah Romero, Rose Fadol and Emy Rose Dael are aiming for their first medal in the sport at the Games. And if Romero, the highest-ranked among them, succeeds, she will dedicate it to th
Philippine women's table tennis players (from far left) Kheith Cruz, Jannah Romero, Rose Fadol and Emy Rose Dael are aiming for their first medal in the sport at the Games. And if Romero, the highest-ranked among them, succeeds, she will dedicate it to their late teammate Ian Lariba. ST PHOTO: LOW LIN FHOONG
Philippine women's table tennis players Kheith Cruz, Jannah Romero, Rose Fadol and Emy Rose Dael are aiming for their first medal in the sport at the Games. And if Romero, the highest-ranked among them, succeeds, she will dedicate it to their late teammat
Philippine women's table tennis players Kheith Cruz, Jannah Romero, Rose Fadol and Emy Rose Dael are aiming for their first medal in the sport at the Games. And if Romero, the highest-ranked among them, succeeds, she will dedicate it to their late teammate Ian Lariba. ST PHOTO: LOW LIN FHOONG
Low Lin Fhoong Assistant Sports Editor In Subic
Updated
Dec 07, 2019, 05:00 AM
Published
Dec 07, 2019, 05:00 AM
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Lying in her hospital bed, Ian Lariba, who was stricken with leukaemia, would continue to watch her teammates play matches and then text her coach to pass on tips between sets.

Filipino Emy Rose Dael's eyes are dry as she talks about her friend and late teammate, smiling as she remembers the latter's nickname for her: Baby Emy.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on December 07, 2019, with the headline 'Big sis' gone but she still inspires Philippine paddlers. Subscribe

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