Cluster V Athletic Meet Opens at La Castellana

*The majestic Mt. Kanla-on serves as a stunning backdrop to the vibrant stage of the 2024 Cluster V Athletic Meet, blending nature’s beauty with the energy of the event.*

La Castellana, Negros Occidental – The 2024 Cluster V Athletic Meet officially opened today, November 20th, at the La Castellana Municipal Oval. This year’s cluster sporting event carries the theme, “ABANSE: Achieving Beyond All, Nurturing Strength through Excellence.”

Running from November 20 to 23, the meet brings together five municipalities—Binalbagan, Hinigaran, Isabela, Moises Padilla, and La Castellana—to compete in 19 sporting categories. With the chance to represent Cluster V in the Division Meet at stake, the event is charged with excitement from both participants and spectators alike.

With the majestic Mt. Kanla-on as backdrop for the opening ceremony, a fitting symbol for the athletes’ spirit, Hon. Añejo G. Nicor, Chairperson of the Committee on Education, extended his greetings to the people present and encouraged the athletes to channel their fire towards greatness.

“Magtipon diri subong nga adlaw para mag-celebrar sang spirit sang sportsmanship,” he stated, highlighting the importance of unity and respect throughout the event.

Delegates and spectators from the five municipalities—Hinigaran, Binalbagan, Isabela, Moises Padilla, and La Castellana—gather at the La Castellana Municipal Oval to witness the grand opening of the 2024 Cluster V Athletic Meet.

Hon. Nicor also underscored the collective aspiration of the community:

Ang aton mga komunidad kag mga pamilya nga nagapangabay sa isa kumon nga handum: Ang ipakita indi lamang ang ila mga abilidad sa sports, kundi ang mga hiyas nga disipilina kag pagbinuligay.

*Team La Castellana beams with pride and camaraderie during the parade, showcasing their spirit and enthusiasm for the 2024 Cluster V Athletic Meet.*

He inspired the audience with his emphasis on the essential values of discipline, teamwork, and striving together towards greatness.

Adding to the dignitaries’ messages, Sir Anthony H. Liobet, CESO V, Schools Division Superintendent of Negros Occidental, briefly acknowledged the efforts of the athletes, coaches, and organizers. He highlighted the role of sports in shaping values like discipline, resilience, courage among the youth participants:

Excellence requires more than thought, it requires action. It is more than just a goal to aim for, it’s a promise to be better everyday. It’s not achieved by chance, but through dedication, discipline, and the courage to keep improving.

*Delegates showcasing their school spirit and unity during the vibrant Cluster V Athletic Meet parade, marking the opening of the event.*

Another notable part of the ceremony was the speech by La Castellana Mayor: Hon. Alme Rhummyla G. Nicor-Mangilimutan. Her words captured the essence of the event. She stated in her speech:

“We come together to celebrate the power of sports—that inspires respect, promotes diligence, and unites us as one community. This Athletic Meet is more than a competition; it is a testament to how determination and teamwork can bring people closer, bridging gaps.”

*View of the stage set against the majestic Mt. Kanla-on, ready for the event to begin.*

As we witness the energy, enthusiasm, and camaraderie of every participant, may we be reminded that true victory lies not only in medals but in the lessons we learned.

Her message resonated like Mt. Kanla-on’s tremors, igniting excitement and purpose among the crowd.

HIGHLIGHTING UNITY IN DIVERSITY, the athletes themselves were the focus of attention. All thanks to the delegates that represented each municipality carrying banners, as well as their pride in their skills, the ceremonial lighting of the torch followed.

Triumphant athletes holding torches, symbolizing the spirit of victory and unity, as the event concludes under the night sky.

This is a symbolic moment where the flame of competition and unity was kindled, much like the fiery heart of Mt. Kanla-on overlooking the festivities.

*A lively jamboree of youth performing synchronized dances to the rhythmic beats of drums and bugles, capturing the vibrant spirit of the 2024 Cluster V Athletic Meet.*

As the sun dipped behind Mt. Kanla-on, the day concluded with a unity dance performed by representatives from all municipalities. The synchronized movements of the performers symbolized the harmony and collaboration that define the Cluster V Athletic Meet.

*Dancers light up the stage with vibrant energy during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Cluster V Athletic Meet in La Castellana.*

The opening day of the 2024 Cluster V Athletic Meet set a vibrant tone for the event, as participants and spectators alike demonstrated the spirit of ABANSE. Just as Mt. Kanla-on remains a powerful presence in the region, the energy of the delegates promises to continue shaking the grounds of competition over the coming days.

*A captivating sight as the crowd gathers in front of Mt. Kanla-on, where volcanic smoke blends with clouds, creating a stunning pareidolia in the sky.*

*The Olympic rings ablaze, symbolizing passion, dedication, and the fiery spirit of competition.*

Igniting the spirit of competition and camaraderie, the ceremonial lighting of the flame marks the official start of the 2024 Cluster V Athletic Meet, symbolizing hope, unity, and the fiery passion of every athlete.

Stay tuned for more as the games progress: will the athletes’ performances rival the unstoppable energy of Mt. Kanla-on? One thing is certain: the Cluster V Athletic Meet is erupting with talent, passion, and unity. Let the games begin!

Photos by Arangka Sports Media and Communication Team and The Hilltop Echo