String of right pulls and spins: Rumble to victory

VICTORIOUS in this year’s Philippine National Yoyo Contest 2017, Henry Miguel "Miggy" Hizon knew that this was only the beginning.

Having discovered his fascination for yo-yos when he was in grade school, former B.S. Psychology student from the University proved that the yo-yo culture never deteriorated, as he was hailed champion in the 5a category of this year’s Philippine National Yo-yo Contest held in SM City Marikina last Sept. 2-3.

The 19-year-old’s passion for the toy grew further when he started feeling the bliss, not only while performing the tricks, but also when he sees the amazement from the audience when he executes them.

“Before, I only look at [the] yoyo as a toy, but [I didn’t expect] that it [will] be my passion,” Hizon told The Spiral Journal in an online interview.

Hizon has already represented ThrowRevolution, a premium yo-yo company based in Singapore, in several contests; he has also received several sponsorships from yo-yo companies based in Hong Kong and Singapore.

Adding to the string of achievements, he ranked second in the Counterweight Division (5A) in the Asia Pacific Yo-yo Championships 2017 held in Singapore last June 30 – July 2.

The digital era had negatively affected the toy industry but Hizon believes that the yo-yo industry will remain intact since yo-yos can enhance hand-eye coordination and muscle memory.

"The yo-yo industry will not decline, [and] parents [will be more than] willing to spend money on yo-yos for their children because it will help their child’s human development,” he affirms. “Yo-yo is not just a toy but more [like] a skill toy or a skill instrument.”

According to Hizon, sharing his new tricks and skills to his fellow yo-yo enthusiasts enhanced his interpersonal skills, and heightened his self-confidence as well.

Hizon's achievements and his growth as a yo-yo competitor proved how a traditional toy can go beyond its conventional purpose, and can give way for one's self-discovery and self-expression. D.A. Fulgencio

WATCH: Hizon’s stunt in the Asia Pacific Yo-yo Championships 2017 (5A Division Finals)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4rBiWWt6AY