Davraa 2013 successful
People, environment focus of Tagum Araw
DAVAO DEL NORTE - An elaborate and colorful spectacle marked the close of the Davao Region Athletic Association (Davraa) Meet that continued to be dominated by the Davao City Durians.
The week-long regional competitions staged mainly at the Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center stood witness to the dramatic rise and fall of courageous players, who battle it out hoping to take a shot at representing the region in the coming Palaro Pambansa games this April.
“We witnessed humility in victory and pride in defeat - the true virtues of sportsmanship,” said Governor Rodolfo del Rosario.
As expected, reigning champ Durians defended their title with smashing victory in the biggest and most prestigious regional games.
They secured 863 points in the overall point standing, way farther than second best Davao del Sur Cobras, which garnered a total of 280 points. Second runner up Panabo City Banana Magnates followed with 282 points.
Main host Davao del Norte Pioneers pulled off242 points to land in the fourth spot. While, the Compostela Valley Golds, who were worst affected by Super Typhoon Pablo three months back, settled the 5th place with 238points.
In a true spirit of sportsmanship, the players, who, just hours before fought tooth and nail pitting against each other to win the trophy, exchanged souvenirs as a token of goodwill and new-found friendship.
Del Rosario reiterated his mantra, which has become the second motto of the competitions: “Storms may have shattered our lives, but never our will to rise.”
“Thank you for making this event a big success,” he told everyone who took part in the games.
He revealed the worldclass sports complex will remain open to the public after the Davraa.
He also offered the facility as training venue for the winning athletes in their preparation for the Palarong Pambansa in Dumaguete City.
“Our doors remain open to help you attain more medals for the Davao region” he declared.
A rave party at the modern track and field oval, courtesy of the GMA Kapuso TV network, capped the closing ceremonies. Noel Baguio