CITY ATHLETES READY TO DEFEND CARAA TITLE

April 12, 2024 Metro BLISTT Sports

BAGUIO CITY

A total of 624 athletes will see action in this year’s Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (CARAA) sports meet to be held in Apayao, starting April 14. The number composed of 235 from the elementary division, 357 from the secondary level and 32 from special events, all from 67 public schools. In total, the city is sending 764 delegates including officials and coaches. City athletes, the heart and soul , came prepared despite the hardships they’ve faced while juggling education and sports.

Shae Nardo,gold medalist in table tennis, student of Fort Del Pilar Elementary School, emphasized the intensified
training they underwent this year. ‘Ine-expect po naming mag gold again this year, Nardo said, adding that defending the gold medal added pressure to train harder. She added that their coach even sent them to La Union for a tune-up training to acclimate to the hot weather and improve endurance. Mark Leonard Arbela, a dancesport athlete, from Baguio Central National High School, shared that aside from the skills and equipment they need to bring, discipline keeps us on the right track. “Maaraw man o malamig, may training po kami sa Athletic Bowl,’ Arbela said.

In the send-off, Mayor Benjamin Magalong provided guidance and encouragement, stating, “Sport is all about sharing our talents and skills; we learn from other provinces, and they should also learn from us.” In terms of logistics, Baguio City will provide transportation with 13 buses and 9 vans to accommodate all delegates. Other support include 700 foams which were purchased and some were donated for the athletes. An ambulance will also be available for emergencies, and police officers are deployed to prevent incidents.

Healthy and nutritious food, in accordance with DEPED’s policy, will be provided, considering food restrictions.
City School Division officials said some P12 million was allocated for the meet which covers training allowance -with each student and coach receive P2,250 pesos, uniforms and other needs for the annual school-based sports competition.

Gwyneth Anne Mina UB Intern/ABN