BAGUIO CITY(PIA) – The province of Apayao successfully hosted the week-long Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (CARAA) meet 2024 with perennial winner, Baguio City, retaining the championship.
Apayao Congresswoman Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang and Department of Education - Cordillera (DepEd CAR) Assistant Regional Director Dr. Ronald Castillo awarded the trophies and certificates to winners of the various events in the annual regional sports meet on April 19 at the Apayao Grandstand in San Gregorio, in Luna municipality.
Baguio City secured 238 gold, 111 silver and 72 bronze medals to retain the CARAA title. Apayao also retained its first runner up ranking with 62 gold, 74 silver and 107 bronze medals. Both Baguio and Apayao have maintain the top 1-2 ranking since 2019.
Benguet placed second runner up with 50 gold, 91 silver and 89 bronze medals.
Ifugao garnered 27 gold, 37 silver and 62 bronze medals to take the third runner up spot, while Abra took home 16 gold, 37 silver and 62 bronze medals for fourth runner up ranking.
Kalinga secured 14 gold, 31 silver, and 57 bronze medals followed by Tabuk City with 12 gold, 18 silver and 35 bronze medals. Mountain Province finished last with five gold, 27 silver and 47 bronze medals.
Begtang thanked all the officials, stakeholders and members of the community for their support in ensuring a very successful and memorable sporting event that was hosted for the third time by Apayao.
The CARAA 2024 had a grand opening on April 15 at the Apayao-Eco Tourism and Sports Complex. Following the grand entrance parade, delegates from the different provinces and cities in the Cordillera region were treated to a unique opening program prepared by the people of Apayao.
Gov. Elias Bulut Jr. warmly welcomed thousands of Cordillera leaders from the different provinces, who led their respective delegates, the athletes, coaches, trainers, the supportive parents and guardians, and guests to the beautiful province of Apayao.
This year’s CARAA theme,“Tara Cordillera, Maglaro at Magkaisa,” encapsulates the essence of this sporting event, “coming together in play and in unity, likewise resonating with our shared principles of inclusivity and solidarity.
In this occasion, may we remember that true victory is not only about amassing medals but also the connections and friendships that we forge along the way,” Bulut said.
The governor also challenged the competitors to build lasting friendship among their fellow athletes and to become inspiration to many.
“To the athletes, I challenge you to not only excel in your respective fields but also to build lasting connections and friendships throughout this undertaking. May your performances inspire us all and showcase the true spirit of sportsmanship and fair play,” he said.
