R1AA 2024 RANIAG Newsletter Volume I, Issue No. 5

DAVID OUTSHINES GOLIATH LC slayed 13 divisions in 2024 R1AA

TROUPEOFVICTORS

In a stunning display of athleticism and determination, SDO Laoag City, has emerged victorious as the overall champion in the recently concluded 2024 Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) Meet, April 22-27, 2024.

The Laoag City's reign across all the events and categories especially in gymnastics, tennis, taekwondo, arnis, athletics, swimming, volleyball and football is a sheer display of versatility and strong determination.

In spite of being one of the smallest divisions in the Region, Laoag's unparalleled skill and unwavering focus dominated all other divisions especially to the Region's sports powerhouse Pangasinan II and Ilocos Norte.

Laoag City, hitting the peak, was marked by grit and perseverance, overcoming formidable opponents with each stride and leap.

"Winning is not just a work of one's excellence but also the culmination of rigorous training and relentless dedication"

Laoag reaped 79 gold, 53 silver, 68 bronze medals that slayed Pangasinan 2 in its bid for the top having 61 gold, 49 silver and 56 medals. Ilocos Norte falls short having a large margin of difference with 52 gold, 68 silver and 58 bronze medals. In para games, Laoag City recorded 1 gold, 1 silver and 1 bronze, placing it as rank 7.

Hon. Michael Marcos Keon, City Mayor of Laoag in his speech during the Thanksgiving mass, few days before the formal opening of the R1AA, he consistently reminding the athletes that preparation is important.

FEATURES

"Winning is not just a work of one's excellence but also the culmination of rigorous training and relentless dedication" he added.

In an event for the LC delegation where Dr. Joann A. Corpuz, Schools Division Superintendent was asked to deliver a message, she repeatedly dares the athletes to go for GOLD. True enough after the 6-day meet, Laoag City sweeps golden victory.

In the victorious culmination of the football elementary, captain ball Lord Cedrick Q. Sabio, expressed his gratitude to their supporters and coaches, highlighting the importance of teamwork and mentorship in achieving such a monumental feat.

Size never matters; it's preparation and unwavering desire for championship that count. This is a history worth recalling like a sweet refrain of a victory song.

He said the Laoag City had a great performance last year securing 2nd Runner Up but he wants improvement as he pour more support for sports this year and has prepared the athletes longer.

Richard M. Collado and Mary Jane P. Leano

ONE, THE SYMBOL OF VICTORY. Hon. Michael Marcos Keon, Mayor, Dr. Joann A. Corpuz, CESO V, the SDS, and Dr. Mariecon G. Ramirez, CESO VI, the ASDS, celebrate with joy as Laoag emerges as the champion in the 2024 R1AA Meet!

R1AA 2024 –Redefining Success Beyond Conquest

Is winning the ultimate measure of success?

Edsel Harry R. Turda

At the core of the hallowed stadium, where zeal streamlines into heroism, the recently concluded Region 1 Athletic Association Meet (R1AA) 2024 stands as a testament to the real essence of being an athlete. Within the corners of the stadium, athletic prowess finds its true essence, where the victory only truly shines when it reflects the human spirit. This year's event was not merely a showcase of athleticism, but is an execution of resilience and indomitable will— from the loud bang of the start gun to the final buzzer, athletes from across the region gathered at the Ferdinand Edralin Marcos Memorial Stadium (FEMMS) to participate in numerous disciplines.

Track and field, basketball, volleyball, swimming, and all other sports functioned to their maximum power with a limitless craving for keel-soring. This shows that the most astounding feature of R1AA 2024 was the display of skills that characterized it. Learner—Athletes with varying histories and from all walks of life converged, linked by their shared passion for the sports.

Learner—Athletes with distinct styles and skills came together to make an evident unity which reflects the Learner—Athletes' camaraderie and sportsmanship. Competitions were set aside as participants from different regions cheered each other on, embodying the true essence of fair play and mutual respect that lies at the core of sportsmanship.

However, in achieving success, many tasted the bitterness of defeat. But it is in these moments of adversity that the true essence of being an athlete shines brightest. For those who fell short of the win, R1AA 2024 was not merely about triumph or loss—it was a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It pushed athletes beyond their perceived limits, urging them to confront challenges head-on and emerge stronger in the face of adversity.

For every athlete who crossed the finish line, and every team that recovered against their chances, the R1AA 2024 was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of being a human. For which in life, where victories are fleeting and defeats mere milestones, it is the lessons learned and the bonds built that endure beyond the applause and awards.

After all, as the echoes of cheers fade and the dust settles on the triumphs and trials of R1AA 2024, life continues, presenting new challenges and setbacks. But the spirit of resilience and solidarity built within the stadium stays, serving as an inspiration for all who dare to chase their dreams, redefine success, and embody the true essence of being an athlete, and a human as well.

Rowel Alexander Ross B. Oroceo

Steve John Mart M. Jose

Editors-in-Chief

Athelene R. Sampayan

Mary Jane P. Leaño

Richard M. Collado

Associate Editors

Mischelle D. Mariano

Richard A. Hapa

Managing Editors

Rodel P. Moreno Jr.

Antonio Q. Albis Jr.

Circulation Managers

Konrad R. Turda

Edsel Harry R. Turda

Maria Jasmin G. Domingo

Antonio Q. Albis Jr.

Layout Artists

Regina Genelin C. Nagtalon

Adelyn C. Domingo

TIMES HAVE CHANGED: TECHNOLOGY IN SPORTS

Apreference of emerging youth. Many of them are consistently confronted with the rapid changes and advancements in technology. As the world continues its journey into the digital age, it's unavoidable that this will deeply impact the interests and activities of the youth. The effect of such changes will be felt in the world of sports, especially among student-athletes. Traditionally, sports such as basketball, volleyball, and football have remained as primary areas of interest for student- athletes. However, with the expansion of technology, it also has a significant impact on various fields including sports. This raises the question, will the types of sports chosen and pursued by student-athletes change as well?

Undeniably, one of the significant aspects of this change is the growing popularity of e-sports. Video game competitions are no longer just pastimes but a full-fledged industry with a wide consumer base and revenue. In e-sports, players don't necessarily need physical attributes like strength and endurance, but their skills, strategies, and critical thinking are still crucial, similar to traditional sports.

This opportunity opens new doors for youth with different interests and talents. Some students may find themselves more drawn to the strategies of video games than the physical training of traditional sports. However, the rise in interest in e-sports doesn't necessarily mean the end of traditional sports. Traditional sports still hold a special place in the hearts of many people and have a wide influence on culture and society. Instead, the increase in options for student-athletes only demonstrates the development and change in the perspectives and interests of the current generation.

It can be inferred that technology may also bring changes in the way traditional sports are taught and trained. The use of advanced gadgets and software can enhance the development of players and strengthen their skills in the field of sports. Moreover, there may be broader access to coaching resources and competitions through online platforms.

John Paul M. Viernes

Raymond R. Santos

EDITORIAL STAFF

Billy Joe T. Rosal Crisanto R. Oroceo

Genalyn Mariano Divine Hernando

Christian Nichol Subrino Mark Jay Segismundo Daniel Bautista, Jr.

Jonas G. Salvador Mark Bryan Aguinaldo Jennie Mae Cabello Leizl Quitoriano Glaiza Cabacungan Marjorie Molina

Carmenette Pacog

Angela Garganta

Jane Meryl Dalde

Daisy Austrine Baptista

Zyra Mae T. Agustin

Xandrelle Yeunice R. Miguel Mark Dave Felipe

Marc Jayson Andres

Lei Angelique Patoc

Vladimir Magayano

Dante Teodoro, Jr.

Anthony Rafanan

Carol Andres

Jacinto B. Pascua

Kchieffer Lainell T. Arcangel

Mariah Denisse Soriano

Ricky Mark Ancheta

Sedrick Kristoffer Alejandro

Sigrid S. Domingo

Imelda Ramos

Eloha Grace Guerrero

Crisel Martinez

Chrislen Ramones

Jaybie Cordero

Madonna May T. Guerrero

Marilyn A. Pasion

Zinnia Jane F. Mateo

Sports Contributors

Lourdes B. Arucan EdD Chief Education Supervisor

Mariecon G. Ramirez EdD, CESO VI Assistant Schools Division Superintendent

Joann A. Corpuz EdD, CESO V Schools Division Superintendent

The continuous evolution of generations and the proliferation of technology will undoubtedly bring changes in the types of sports that student- athletes try and choose. Amidst these changes, it's important to continue supporting and respecting their unique interests and talents, whatever they may be. These changes not only demonstrate the ability of youth to adapt to new environments but also provide new opportunities for development and

Do you think the Athletic Association is ready for e-sports and the changes brought about by the proliferation of technology?

PERSPECTIVE

TWIRLING THROUGH TIGHTROPES

magine a world where every performance is a high-wire act, where success hangs in the balance, and the slightest misstep can send you plummeting into uncertainty. Just like in the arena of competitive sports where the atmosphere crackles with energy, but amidst the cheers and applause, there's a sinister undercurrent—a tightrope of tension ready to trip up even the most poised performer.

I EDITORIAL

Stepping into the world of rhythmic gymnastics, where athletes twirl and pirouette with precision, their routines a delicate balance of athleticism and artistry. But for one gymnast, the stage became a treacherous tightrope, not of ribbons and hoops, but of criticism and jeers.

As she twirled through her routine, each movement was met not with admiration, but with the sharp sting of derision from a rival coach. It was as though she was navigating a tightrope strung with barbs, her every misstep magnified by the relentless booing from the sidelines.

In the crucible of competition, where victory and defeat hang in the balance, emotions run high. Coaches pour their hearts into their athletes, but when passion spills over into cruelty, it taints the very essence of the sport.

Sportsmanship should be the guiding light, illuminating the path to victory with honor and respect. It's the understanding that true champions don't tear down their rivals but lift them up, recognizing that the pursuit of greatness is enriched by camaraderie and mutual support.

The repercussions of such toxic behavior extend beyond the individual athlete, poisoning the well of sportsmanship for all who drink from it. But amidst the darkness, there is hope—a reminder that we are all twirling through tightropes, and it's only by lifting each other up that we can avoid plunging into a bottomless void.

Konrad R. Turda

SDOLC BILLETING SCHOOL SERVICES HIGHLIGHT BEST PRACTICES, SUPPORT ‘GO FOR GOLD’ CALL

In adherence to the rigorous standards outlined in the DepEd guidelines and SDO Laoag City's commitment to enhancing its performance at the 2024 Region 1 Athletic Association Meet (R1AA), the working committees are steadfastly dedicated to providing exceptional services to its 455 student-athletes, coaches, and technical officials housed at Ilocos Norte National High School.

The Food and Snacks Committee diligently ensures the safety and nutritional value of every meal, implementing a two-shift system to guarantee timely service.

Each plate is meticulously prepared to include a nourishing soup and fresh fruit at every meal, fostering the athletes' wellbeing throughout 5-day event.

Moreover, the mess hall, Piesta ti Away inspired, is decorated with plants, serving as both aesthetic enhancements and potential attractions for interested buyers.

Moreover, the mess hall, Piesta ti Away inspired, is decorated with plants, serving as both aesthetic enhancements and potential attractions for interested buyers.

A designated entertainment area is also available around the clock which offers athletes and coaches a sanctuary for leisure, combining the comforts of a living room and bedroom.

Concurrently, the sanitation of the entire billeting school is diligently maintained by SDO Laoag City's utility personnel.

Meanwhile, to address athletes' holistic needs, accessible Help Desks and a Child Protection Desk provide counseling and referral services, ensuring support for those in need.

Additionally, a freedom board serves as a platform for athletes to express their joys and frustrations, while informative brochures on stress management are readily distributed.

These measures and ongoing efforts receive unwavering support and supervision from Dr. Joann A. Corpuz, CESO V, Schools Division Superintendent, and Dr. Mariecon G. Ramirez, CESO VI, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, along with the heads of the curriculum and governance divisions, Dr. Lourdes B. Arucan and Mr. Giselo Ulep, respectively.

LC Chess Team bags 2 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze in Standard Category

Flaunting like a bolt of thunder, the heated-up Johnny Suguitan, Asher Soberano, and James Lapitan took home two golds, one silver, and one bronze after dominating in the Chess Tournament Standard Category during the Region 1 Athletic Association Meet (R1AA) held at the jam-packed SDOIN Conference Hall, April 26.

Chess Master Suguitan scored six points and won one silver medal for Laoag City after seven rounds of Standard Category and is qualified as a reserve player for the Palarong Pambansa after launching his formidable defense and incredible offense.

“I am beyond grateful that I ranked second out of 28 participants and I am also happy that I will be joining the Palarong Pambansa as a reserve player,” said Suguitan after the awarding.

Johnny Suguitan and James Lapitan placed first in the Elementary Boys Team Category and bagged two gold medals for Laoag City.

“I am very happy because our hardwork has paid off and I dedicate this medal to my trainors and my family who gave us unending guidance and support,” stated Lapitan after the awarding ceremony.

“I am very happy because our hardwork has paid off and I dedicate this medal to my trainors and my family who gave us unending guidance and support,” stated Lapitan after the awarding ceremony.

Aside from Suguitan and Lapitan, Asher Soberano also showed elegance in strategy and tactics in the Secondary Boys Individual Category and brought home the bronze medal.

“It feels nice to win and I dedicate this victory to my brother who taught me how to play chess,” shared Soberano.

Although some of the players of Laoag City Chess Team were not awarded with medals, joining the R1AA is a great honor for them and is enough to call them champions.

The team also grabbed several medals during the Blitz Tournament. In the team category they took home one gold, one silver, and two bronze, while in the individual category, they won two silver and one bronze.

LAOAG CITY DOMINATES TAEKWONDO COMPETITION, TO SEND FAVORABLE QUANTITY OF FIGHTERS IN PALARONG PAMBANSA

Eloha Grace T. Guerrero and Imelda B. Ramos

SAN NICOLAS, Ilocos Norte – fearlessly kicking their way to the limelight, Schools Division Of Laoag City ruled over their opponents in the Region 1 Athletic Association Meet Taekwondo Competition held at the jampacked Robinsons Mall, April 25

Combining Speed and strength, 3 secondary taekwondo acers Mark Bren Tagama in Male Category 6, Iris Bea Dela Cruz in Female Category 7, and Jillian Vyncent Uganiza in Female Category 4 all ended gold medalist during the last day of the match.

Moreover, along with them are Roman Carl Ramos Silver Medalist, Princes Nina Selina Bartolome and Jenah Rose Javier both bronze medalists.

“I know you work hard for this and you made it! Congratulations! [Tagama]” said by Mrs. Eva Rose Alegar one of their coaches “Good Luck sa Cebu” she also added.

The champion in each category will move on to represent Region 1 in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa this July, which will be held in Cebu as training will start immediately after R1AA.

LAOAG CITY DEVOURS ILOCOS SUR, 2-0; BOOKS SPOT IN SHOWDOWN FOR PALARONG PAMBANSA

DRommel L. Dela Cruz IV, Daisy Austrine T. Baptista isplaying their omnipotence full of demoralizing attacks and explosive techniques, the ever-ruthless Laoag City Badminton duo Eiraun Jimhuel Placido and Rey Christopher Cu ultimately skyrocketed straight to the cloud nine as they unleashed their mesmerizing smashes and jaw-dropping drop shots, which assassinated the dying Ilocos Sur, 2-0 (21-14, 2114) as they rode high on their fastidious skills mixed their power game with resolute ground skills and attacks, dominating the shimmering gold medal in Badminton Secondary Boys Doubles Championship Game at the heated-up David's Gym, April 26.

Aiming for a swift triumph, both courageous and ferocious teams unleashed their powerful guts and unwavering spirits which caused a non-stop exchange of fast shots and strong strategies, showcasing a see-saw fight.

Excellently, Placido quickly showed hid demoralizing might through unleashing his jawdropping smashes, and lightning-fast service aces combined by Cu's formidable force which humiliated Ilocos Sur, paving their way for a runaway lead with a 21-14 count.

Benefitting from the brilliance and excellence of Placido, Laoag City continued to wax down the hot floor as their power-duo Placido and Cu exceptionally showcased their expert domination of blistering techniques and bomb-like smashes coupled with their booming showcase of tremendous service aces, seizing the ultimate gold with 21-14.

Meanwhile, Placido and Cu will fight for supremacy of our Region through their excellence as they compete in this upcoming Palarong Pambansa at the Cebu City on July 6-17.

Rowel Alexander Ross B. Oroceo

Ralph Godwyn S. dela Cruz, Mischelle D. Mariano, and Mariah Denisse G. Soriano

SERVING-UP SUCCESS. The serving committee in action, fueling the coaches and athletes of Laoag City with a nutritious food during the 2024 R1AA Meet.

"With such humor, he exemplified a tantalizing smile that captures everyone."

He is known as ‘Isipin Mong Mabuti Man’ who went viral recently during the hype of R1AA on social media. Everyone was making captions and sharing posts about his picture, particularly when he was stolen by a photographer, standing firmly and insinuating to think critically before taking action during the 2024 R1AA Meet.

One caption posted, “Isipin mo na hindi ka na niya mahal," and another one, “Ilagay mo sa kokote mo na mayroon na siyang iba.” These were just some of the many amusing captions flaunted on social media. But little did anyone know how is he as a teacher and as a coach.

In his 35 years of teaching journey, one striking word he encapsulates is CHALLENGING. Before R1AA 2024, he was operated on, but it did not hinder him from being a coach in volleyball. He continued his passion and his team even emerged victorious.

Many would ridicule and make fun of him, but what illuminates his personality is that he remains humble at all costs. Against the odds, he remains happy and content. Before his retirement, he did great in his endeavors. How joyful to meet him personally! A person with a true spirit of sports.

It all starts with Kudos, Sir Hilario A. Baltazar.

R. MIGUEL, ZYRA

LAOAG CITY BADMINTON’S TEAM’S JOURNEY TO SUCCESS

Behind the courts and the smashes lies a story of dedication, hard work, and the unwavering spirit of the Laoag City Badminton Team. Coaches, trainers, and players alike embody the acronym "LOVE," which has become the cornerstone of their journey to victory.

for Loyalty: Loyalty not just to the sport, but to each other, defines this team. Coach Lorenzo, a pillar of strength and wisdom, nurtures a sense of family among the players. "We are not just teammates; we are a family," he often reminds them, fostering a bond that goes beyond the courts.]

for Optimum Performance: The team constantly strives for excellence, pushing their limits to achieve optimum performance. Trainers work tirelessly to develop the players' skills, ensuring that each smash, drop shot, and serve is executed with precision and finesse.

for Victory Mindset: Success begins in the mind, and the Laoag City Badminton Team embodies a victory mindset. Through rigorous mental training, the players learn to stay focused, confident, and resilient, even in the face of tough opponents.

for Endless Teamwork: Teamwork is at the core of the team's success. It is exemplified in doubles matches, where partners rely on each other's strengths, communicate effectively, and work in harmony to outmaneuver opponents. It goes beyond the court, as players support and uplift each other, creating a bond that strengthens their game. Endless teamwork is about understanding your role, trusting your partner, and being there to cover for each other's weaknesses. It's about celebrating victories together and learning from defeats as a team.

In the world of badminton, "love all" signifies more than just a score; it embodies the spirit of a new beginning and equal opportunity. It's a phrase that encapsulates the essence of the sport—a fair start, a level playing field, and the chance for each player to strive for victory. The journey of the Laoag City Badminton Team exemplifies this spirit, where love for the game, loyalty, optimum performance, victory mindset, and teamwork are the driving forces behind their success. As they have shown, starting with "love all" sets the stage for incredible achievements. And as their story inspires us, let us remember that in every endeavor, whether on the court or in life, it begins with love and ends with all-encompassing love.

STEVE JOHN MART M. JOSE

XANDRELLE YEUNICE

MAE T. AGUSTIN AND DAISY AUSTRINE T. BAPTISTA

Supremacy over a ruthless brawl

FARIÑAS SUBDUES MANLAPAT IN LAWN TENNIS FINALS

Eloha Grace T. Guerrero and Imelda B. Ramos

Laoag City Division once again proved its supremacy against Alaminos City Division, 8-4, during the Region I Athletic Association Meet Lawn Tennis

Singles, Secondary Boys Finals with wild-cheering spectators at the Mariano Marcos State University, Lawn tennis Court, April 26.

Laoag City Division once again proved its supremacy against Alaminos City Division, 8-4, during the Region I Athletic Association Meet Lawn Tennis Singles, Secondary Boys Finals with wildcheering spectators at the Mariano Marcos State University, Lawn tennis Court, April 26.

Pushed by determination and accompanied by their sharpened skills, both players blazed the first part with a blast, displaying frightening assaults and dominative explosions.

LC OVERPOWERS PANG II TO SECURE BRONZE MEDAL, 79-62

by Liezl R. Quitoriano and Glaiza Mae P. Cabacungan

In a thrilling matchup for the bronze medal in the Regional Basketball Championship, Laoag City showcased their prowess and secured a decisive victory against Pangasinan II during the Region 1 Athletic Association Meet (R1AA), April 26.

The game unfolded with intense energy and skill, ultimately resulting in a convincing win for the Laoag City team. From the outset, Laoag City set the tone, dominating the first quarter with a commanding lead of 18-10. The team exhibited strong offensive plays coupled with solid defense, putting them ahead early in the game.

Pangasinan II fought back fiercely in the second quarter, narrowing the gap as they scored 36 points against Laoag City's 29. The team reflected avenging moves and defenses.

As the game progressed into the third quarter, Laoag City surged ahead once more, widening their lead to 57-44. Their players demonstrated exceptional teamwork and strategic play, extending their advantage going into the final quarter.

In the last quarter, Laoag City continued to build on their momentum, outscoring Pangasinan II 22-18. The game concluded with a final score of 79-62, firmly securing the bronze medal for Laoag City. Dwayne M. Sabado and Justine Troy A. Aguirre, the key players from Laoag City, contributed significantly to their team's success, with standout performances on both ends of the court. The collective effort and determination of the entire squad were instrumental in clinching this important victory.

“Even if we did not make it to the championship round, we are still champions because we are survivors of the challenges of the court, “ said Sabado gasping his breath after the last game. The resounding win marks a remarkable achievement for Laoag City in this prestigious tournament, highlighting their skill, resilience, and commitment to excellence on the basketball court.

John Federyx P. Fariñas of Laoag City Division showed-off his untampered service and placings in the first game to lead a one point to Jimwell Alfred Manlapat of Alaminos City Division.

But the fuel-heated Manlapat ignited as he put all his efforts to mark a lead in the second game. He grabbed the spotlight when he made a back to back score to attain three points against Fariñas’ one point.

With Fariñas formidable backhand shots and placings, he seized the next moments with a blitzkrieg. His attacks did not fail as he dominated the court in the fourth game with his wild tactics and skills.

The burning ball continued to bounced as Manlapat made two points at the fifth and sixth game, 4-2. Fariñas was fast to steal the limelight to swept away Manlapat with his skillful forehand shots and smashes. This made life difficult to Manlapat as Fariñas turned the score to 5-4.

The last three games were nerve wrecking as supporters from both players wereloudly cheering for their bet.

Fariñas never let go of his grip as he was near to victory. Though, Manlapat fought back with the right hand tactics, it was never enough to defeat the roaring Fariñas.

With his perfect defense, Fariñas skirmish his way to victory with an impressive score of 8 against Manlapat’s 4 points.

Laoag City is a back to back champion as it was last year when Ava Daniel Mandac was declared as champion in the same event.

“It was the very rigid training, continuous play, the support of family, friends and Team Laoag City that led me to this victory”, Fariñas said gladly.

Mr. Harold Domingo was in tears of joy as he watched Fariñas glorious winning. Fariñas will represent Region I in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa which will happen in Cebu this coming June.

LAOAG CITY CLINCHES SILVER IN REG'LMEETSOFTBALLELEMENTARY

Jerrah

LArcangel

aoag City bagged silver in the recently concluded Championship Game of the Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) Meet Softball Elementary held at the Bacarra National Comprehensive High School, April 27.

Faltering again to Ilocos Norte's excellent skills and manageable leads, Laoag City bid farewell to their aimed golden podium finish and ticket to Palaro as they clutched their shimmering silver victory with a three away win, 6-3.

Up against a perennial champion squad, Laoag City equalized their foes' attacks to redeem themselves in their first defeat against the same opponent.

Laoag City's Asuncion gave her team their first home save before the next batters failed to hit Ilocos Norte's swift pitches and earned just one mark for their score board.

Trying to revamp themselves as the defensive team, Laoag City guarded their foes' moves but failed in keeping an eye on Panu and Madalupay's runs, ending the set with Ilocos Norte as the lead, 2-1.

The second inning sparked with a slam as both teams gave each other a hard-fought brawl with Ilocos Norte's incredible catch and tags and Laoag City's pitcher Fermin's magnificent pitches as well as fielders Calvan and Corpuz's catches.

Laoag City's Alvarado gave her team their first and only home save which successfully saved her three teammates' strike outs in the third inning.

Meanwhile, defending champion Ilocos Norte did not hold back and completely went all out as Savela, Madalupay, and Juzon registered three home saves to end the inning with them still leading, 3-1.

Both teams refused to admit defeat in the fourth inning as Ilocos Norte showcased their glorious tagging techniques, outing all batters in the first base as well as Laoag City who gave their rival two strike outs and a tag from first baser duty Balico.

Laoag City gave their all in the deciding inning as first batter Lumabao gave her team their last mark through her full swing hit before completely backing down when Ilocos Norte scored another point in their offense, 6-3.

Laoag City will be back much stronger, fiercer, and bolder in the next R1AA Meet while Ilocos Norte will be representing Region 1 in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa which will be held in Cebu.

INTENSE SHOWDOWN. John Federyx P. Fariñas unleashes his untampered service, showcasing skill and precision for Laoag City Division.

DRIBBLE, SHOOT, SCORE. Laoag City dominates the court againts PangasinanII,showcasingtheirpassion andskilltoemergevictorious.

Mae Mahor and Kchieffer Lainell

Shining, shimmering, splendid

Cartwheel emojis side by side with the tiny gold medals and all colors of hearts with those little cones of confetti are the perfect language to describe the victory of the Laoag City Gymnastics team. Day by day, on that span of four days of nerve-racking competitions in the different categories, medals fall off the air like the ball and club apparatus used in rhythmic gymnastics making the team hailed as the Best Performing Division in Gymnastics among all the 14 competing divisions in the R1AA Meet 2024.

This talent bares naked the ability of humans to achieve perfection in form, push boundaries in strength, flexibility, endurance, and agility, above all feeds the soul with the highest form of beauty that is coupled in this centuries-old kind of art.

LC gymnasts persevered through hard work, determination, commitment, and passion.

Over the past three months, they filled the missing gaps in their rare and promising talents through their rigid trainings and practices with their zealous trainers and coaches.

Enduring tendon sprains, sore back, and many forms of muscle painsindeed, gymnastics is a physically demanding, full body sport requiring both strength and flexibility.

Nonetheless, the Greek gods Heracles and Hermes favored the team and gathered a total of 28 gold, 15 silver, and 10 bronze medals which greatly contributed to the overall success of the whole division.

Breaking down the team’s medal tally, Aero group garnered 3 gold and 2 bronze medals; MAG/WAG garnered 13 gold, 6 silver, 2 bronze medals; and RG ended strong with 12 gold, 9 silver, and 6 bronze medals.

This grand sweep shall take all that sore and pain away. The LC Gymnastics team believed they could fly and so they did.

ATHLETICS TEAM HEAVES 13 GOLD, 7 SILVER, 12 BRONZE

Billy Joe T. Rosal and Mikyla Gwyneth P. Cabita

Laoag City Athletics Team continues to dominate the Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) Meet after bagging 13 gold, 7 silver and 12 bronze under the scorching heat in Ferdinand Edralin Marcos Memorial Stadium (FEMSS), April 23-26.

All elementary and secondary bets of Laoag are unstoppable after they flaunt their lightning-like speed and power to outrun their foes. Fueled by burning determination the Athletics Secondary Girls emerged as over-all champion after a successful hoarding of 6 gold, 2 silver and 4 bronze. Ma Christine Joy Taliente shows her dominance after bagging the gold medals in 200M, 400M and 800M run. Another gold for the team was added after Abigail Laciste outruns her foes with his cheetah-like speed in the 1500m run and silver medal in 800m run following Taliente. Lara Jane Corpuz also secured a gold medal in the javelin throw and a silver medal in discuss throw.

Moreover, Veronica Shane Julian, Princess Bevian Garan and Princess Angel Ganot also delivered a bronze medal in the 3000m run, 110m hurdles and 400m hurdles respectively. On the other hand, John Vincent Gonzales of Secondary boys landed in 3rd place securing the bronze medal for javelin throw secondary boys.

The team also brought an impressive campaign in the 4x400m and 4x100m earning gold and bronze medal. Driven by their burning determination and passion, both Athletics elementary team boys and girls clinched 1st runner up after recording 7 gold, 4 silver and 7 bronze.

Elementary bets Arriana Dawn Rabbi and Mario Guillermo Corpuz snatched the gold medals in Discuss Throw and Shot put. Adding up the medal haul in throwing events, Czarinae Ashley Corpuz and Michael Corpuz landed 3rd place in shot put and javelin throw.

Inspired by Usain Bolt, elementary trackers reign supreme as they stockpiled medals. Corpuz demoralized 28 counterparts in the region after finishing first in the 200m dash while Nathalie Faye Miguel outpaced other contingents in 1500m run and fall short in 800m run concluding in 2nd place.

Meanwhile, Michael Corpuz, John Dave Rebolledo, Joh Rex Dumo, Danel Daphyx Barrientos and Maxene Lalaine Taliente gathered their strength and settled for bronze medal in 400m, 800m, 1500m and 200m respectively. More so, Triple jump bets, Zanea Micel Tayson, and Je Anne Remigio, both elementary students also clinched gold and bronze for Laoag City after registering 9.44 meters and 9.05 meters respectively.

Furthermore, elementary boys trackers displayed their speed and strengths as they garnered t he silver medals in the 4x100m and 4x400m.

“Its my honor to bring another gold medal to Laoag City. This victory is not just for myself but it’s also for our City” said by Taliente.

The Athletics Team’s training is closely monitored by the City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon.

ONE GOAL, ONE TEAM, ONE IN TRIUMPH. Laoag City’s unstoppable elementary and secondary athletes stopped for a while after dominating the field with lightning speed and fierce determination, clinching victory with an impressive haul of gold, silver, and bronze medals."

Mary Jane Leaño and Richard Collado