Wildcats topple defending champs to seize Athletics crown

Lycamae Penarejo

March 26, 2024

In a thrilling turn of events, Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation – Lucena (MSEUF) Wildcats have risen to claim the overall champion in track and field events, dethroning Inter-Global College Foundation Inc. after a year-long journey of perseverance and determination.

PRISAA Quezon Chapter Meet, marked a historic moment as the Wildcats showcased their prowess in Quezon National High School. With a display of athleticism and teamwork, Wildcats roared to victory, clinching an impressive array of medals with 18 gold, 11 silver, and seven bronze, reclaiming their position at the pinnacle of excellence.

After enduring defeat in the previous year, Wildcats embarked on a relentless pursuit of greatness, fueled by their burning desire to reclaim their rightful place as champions. Through dedication, perseverance, and determination, they honed their skills and sharpened their competitive edge, ready to face any challenge head-on.

“Simula ng magpunta ako sa Enverga 13 years or 14 years na ata kaming nakakachampion [sa Quezon Meet.] Ngayon naman sa regionals mas magtutuon kami sa training … dadagdagan ko hurdles ng athletes kasi marami na rin ang magagaling do’n lalo na gusto namin mag-overall [champions] sa regionals,” coach Reberto Abel Jr. pointed out.

Among the standout performers was sprint sensation Luke Salamante, whose exceptional technique and boundless athleticism propelled him to multiple gold medals in the long jump, triple jump, and high jump events. His flawless execution and extraordinary leaping ability left the audience and spectators mesmerized and solidified his reputation as a dominant force in the world of track and field.

“Mula December po nagtratraining na ako. Pag sapit nung Philippine National Games, nagdiretso na ako kasi gusto talaga namin mag champion ngayon kasi gusto ko talaga mag champion kasi natalo kami ng Inter-Global … lumamang lang sila sa silver medals noon kaya nagsabi ako kay coach na humanap kami ng mga players. Kaya pasalamat talaga kami sa Enverga, mas pagbubutihin namin sa Regionals,” said Luke Salamante.

The Wildcats’ journey to redemption was an evidence to their resilience and fortitude, as they overcame adversity and setbacks with hard work. With each stride and each leap, they demonstrated the true spirit of champions, refusing to be deterred by past defeats and instead using them as fuel to propel themselves to greater heights.

As the final results were announced, the Wildcats stood tall and proud, their hard work and perseverance finally paying off as they claimed the overall champion title, snatching it from the grasp of Inter-Global College Foundation Inc. 

Meanwhile, Inter-Global College Foundation Inc. clinched the second spot with nine gold, eight silver, and 16 bronze medals. On the other hand, Maryhill College earned six gold, 12 silver, and eight bronze medals, securing the third position in the PRISAA track and field events.

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