Grace in grit: Jazmine Vinoya’s golden ride

When the wheels spin, so does her will.While most teens spend their mornings in bed, Jazmine Kaye Vinoya greets the day with sweat and speed.

At just 18, the cyclist from Calasiao, Pangasinan, now based in the Summer Capital, has already proven herself on the national stage as she earned two gold medals in cycling at Batang Pinoy 2024, where she proudly represented Baguio City.

A member of Waewa Youth Cycling Team under Coach Mhao and Geenlee Cycling Team of Nueva Ecija, she trains daily in Baguio’s steep roads and neighboring provinces, fitting terrain for someone racing toward big dreams.

“My day starts with warm-ups and intervals to build endurance,” Jazmine shares as she balances training and studies.

“Time management is what I do to keep both in check,” she said as her Batang Pinoy journey came with challenges.

My first race, the criterium, was a disaster. I was in the lead when I got caught in a mash-up crash,” Jazmine said that while still bruised, she came back strong, claiming gold in the time trial and road race.

“Going up the podium and receiving my medal was the most memorable moment. It made everything worth it. My family and my team motivate me. They believe in me, so I believe in myself too,” she disclosed.

Jazmine is inspired by her older sister, her role model, who is also a cyclist and now rides for the Standard Insurance Team.

Looking ahead, she shares “Five years from now, I hope to be a professional cyclist competing abroad like Thailand representing the Philippines and to be a college graduate.”

To young athletes, her advice is clear: “Have a goal. Train hard. Believe in yourself. Love what you do, and never forget to prioritize your studies.”

For Jazmine, every fall is just a chance to rise stronger, and every race is a step closer to greatness. With discipline, prayer, and purpose, Jazmine Vinoya is pedaling toward a future paved with more victories. – Roline Cabantoc, Baguio PIO intern / Gaby Keith