The SM Group signs a contract with Michael Martinez for monetary support in his goal to make it to the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Michael Martinez, who had discovered his love for skating at a very early age, honed his skills at the SM Skating Rink. He had joined international competitions such as those developed by the International Skating Institute and the International Skating Union, but his efforts have recently been noticed by the Public as the only Filipino representative at the Winter Olympics 2014.

To further develop his talent, SM Prime Holdings, SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc., and the SM Foundation teamed up to provide Martinez monetary support for his training and needs for skating.

The contract signing of Michael Martinez and SM was timely as Martinez will be leaving tomorrow for the 2014 United States to train in preparation of the Hilton Honors Skate America to be held in Chicago Illinois in October 22-26. Michael was one of the select few invited by the organizing committee of the Hilton Honors to compete in this prestigious event. Only World Top Ranking skaters, which Martinez ranks 27th, are requested to attend the competition.

The SM Group is proud to support athletes such as Michael Martinez, who has proven that a tropical country can succeed in a winter sport.

Philippines' pride and sole athlete sent to the recent Winter Olympics in Sochi Michael Martinez was given a hero's welcome (motorcade) last Sunday, February 23, 2014. Followed by a press conference at SM Mall of Asia.


His Early Years in Ice Skating..

Michael Martinez first started ice skating at the tender age of 8 in SM Southmall Skating Rink enrolling in formal acting lessons towards fulfilling his dream of becoming a professional figure skater.  Eventually, he transferred to SM Mall of Asia Skating Rink, which had a bigger rink, to continue his trainings and participate in many local skating competitions. To date,Martinez has garnered 194 medals and trophies from various international and local competitions. Martinez clinched 7th place at the 2013 Nebelhorn Trophy in Germany that qualified him for the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.

During the presscon, one of the interesting question asked was what was in Michael's mind while performing in the program. Michael answered, "I'm doing this for God, for my family, for my country."

He will still continue training with his Russian trainer in the U.S. Michael will only be in the Philippines for 2 days. He has to fly back to the United States to train and prepare for the junior figure skating competition in Bulgaria.

Meet and Greet Michael Martinez

As a way to thank his fans for their unwavering support, Michael Martinez will be at the SM Southmall Ice Skating Rink for a meet and greet on February 24 at 4-5 PM, SM Mall of Asia Ice Skating Rink on February 25 at 12- 1 PM, and at the SM Skating Rink in Megamall’s Mega Fashion Hall on February 25 at 4-5 PM.