Team BBG Celebrates Medal Success at 89th Araw ng Dabaw Athletics Festival
Veteran Dabawenyo coach Roel Ano's Team Basta Bisaya Gahi (BBG) is celebrating a remarkable achievement after a strong showing at the 89th Araw ng Dabaw Athletics Festival. Over two days of intense competition at the UM Track Oval, the team collected an impressive haul of 12 gold, 24 silver, and eight bronze medals, showcasing their talent and dedication in the track and field event.
Division Standings and Team Performances
In the Under-13 girls category, Team BBG clinched the title, demonstrating their dominance among younger athletes. They also finished as first runner-up overall in the Under-13 division and secured second runner-up positions in both the Under-18 girls and Under-13 boys categories. This multi-division success highlights the team's versatility and depth across age groups.
The festival saw fierce competition from other teams as well. CCES Blazing Phoenix edged out a tight race in the 13-under category, collecting five golds, eight silvers, and four bronzes to secure the overall crown. Team BBG matched the five-gold output but settled for first runner-up with seven silvers and three bronzes, while Marilog North District finished as second runner-up with four golds and eight bronzes.
Dominance Across Age Divisions
In the 18-under division, MOBL Team imposed its dominance by sweeping seven gold medals and adding a bronze to outpace Sta. Maria Tigers Athletic Club, which tallied six golds, four silvers, and three bronzes. Kinetix X España Team placed third with five golds, seven silvers, and eight bronzes, adding to the competitive spirit of the event.
For the 18-and-above open category, UM Davao ruled the field by capturing five gold medals to top the competition. North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU) placed first runner-up with three golds, while UM Tagum secured second runner-up honors with two golds, showcasing the strength of university-level athletes.
Individual and Team Event Highlights
Individual brilliance fueled the competition, with standout performers across divisions. Rafael Albores led the 13-under boys division, Jhon Rey Lintuan topped the 18-under boys, and Anfernee Lopena emerged as the standout in the men's open class. On the women's side, Athena Precious Oro ruled the 13-under girls, Janel Cabiles dominated the 18-under girls, and Kate Duffy Gel McDowell shone in the women's open category.
Team events added more drama to the meet. Team Davao Striders seized the 13-under boys title with five golds, while BBG Team controlled the 13-under girls division behind a five-gold haul. In the 18-under boys, Kinetix X España Team delivered five golds to clinch the crown, as MOBL Team mirrored that output to win the 18-under girls title. In the open division, Go For Gold powered through the men's category with seven golds, while UM Davao anchored the women's division with five golds and four silvers.
Event Organization and Significance
The Davao City Track and Field Association (DCTFA) organized the two-day trackfest, which was part of the month-long 89th Araw ng Dabaw Sports Festival. This event was presented by the city government of Davao through the Sports Development Division of the City Mayor's Office, emphasizing community engagement and athletic development. The festival wrapped up recently, with young standouts and seasoned runners delivering gold-laden performances that celebrated sportsmanship and local talent.
