BY CLIFFORD JAMES L. DANDUAN/UM INTERN
THE CITY government organized a send-off ceremony for Davaoeño athletes on Monday, Nov. 18, at the Davao City Recreation Center (Almendras Gym) ahead of their participation in the 2024 Batang Pinoy National Championship and the BIMP-EAGA + NT Friendship Games.
These two major sporting events will take place in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, from Nov. 20 to 30 and Nov. 29 to Dec. 6, respectively.
A total of 287 athletes are set to showcase their athletic prowess in 26 sports disciplines in the 2024 edition of Batang Pinoy, while ninety seasoned athletes gear up for a fierce showdown at the BIMP-EAGA+NT friendship games in eight sporting events.
In his opening remarks, Vice Mayor Jay Melchor Quitain Jr. reminded the athletes to give their best but to never forget to enjoy the experience and pray amidst the pressure they feel.
“I’m sure the pressure is there because if you join a competition, of course, your aim is to win, you don’t just join for the experience. Pupunta ka na lang doon, might as well give it all your best. But even if you give it all your best, do not forget to enjoy and do not forget to always pray,” he said.
Quitain also read Mayor Sebastian Duterte’s speech as the chief executive extended his best wishes to the Davaoeño athletes participating in the competition.
He reminded the athletes to always believe in their abilities, finish strong, and seize every moment to promote sportsmanship and camaraderie among fellow athletes throughout the sporting event.
“Always believe in yourself and find encouragement in every trial and setback. You may be far from home during the competition; nevertheless, we are confident you will strive to finish it strong and make the most of the opportunity to forge friendships with fellow athletes of the country and the BIMP-EAGA,” he said.
“Real victory not only comes from winning but also from doing your best in displaying acts of discipline, teamwork, integrity, and sportsmanship. May you continue to excel not just in the field of sports but in all other facets of your lives as well,” he shared.
The Batang Pinoy is a national sports development program established by Executive Order No. 44, series of 1998, to showcase talents, hone skills, and cultivate a culture of physical fitness and sportsmanship among Filipino children.
Meanwhile, the BIMP-EAGA friendship games aimed to promote excellence and camaraderie in sports, as well as preserve the rich culture and heritage of the participating countries from the subregion.
