Davao del Norte Athletes Dominate with Four Gold Medals at 2026 Davraa Meet
Davao del Norte continued its impressive performance on Day 2 of the 2026 Davao Region Athletic Association (Davraa) Meet, securing multiple gold medals in athletics at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex in Tagum City on Tuesday, February 24. The standout athletes included Brylle Josh S. Robis in triple jump, John Rey Luntian in javelin throw, Samantha V. Martinez in the 100-meter dash, and Cherry Ann L. Tangaro in long jump, all contributing to their region's medal lead.
Brylle Josh S. Robis: Triple Jump Triumph
Brylle Josh S. Robis, a 17-year-old Grade 11 student from Sto. Tomas National High School, won gold in the secondary boys' triple jump with a leap of 13.71 meters. He expressed immense joy, dedicating his victory to his parents who have been his primary motivators. Robis, who started athletics at age 13 after switching from basketball, has competed in Davraa since 2024 and aims to break records at the upcoming Palarong Pambansa. His rigorous training regimen includes daily sessions under coaches Beverly Garcisto Villarino and Jestony, emphasizing disciplined nutrition and sleep.
John Rey Luntian: Overcoming Adversity in Javelin Throw
John Rey Luntian, a 15-year-old Grade 9 athlete from the Davao del Norte Regional Sports Academy (DNRSA), clinched gold in the secondary boys' javelin throw despite facing challenges. During the finals on Monday, February 23, he slipped on the rain-soaked runway but persevered. After an initial 48-meter throw, he trailed behind a competitor from Davao Oriental who reached 50 meters. However, Luntian rallied with a stronger second attempt to secure the win. Coached by Rafael Lamatan, he trains twice daily and credits his success to discipline and focus, having not expected to win after previous setbacks in higher-level meets.
Samantha V. Martinez: Sprinting to Success
Samantha V. Martinez, a 14-year-old Grade 9 standout from DNRSA, reaffirmed Davao del Norte's dominance in sprinting by winning gold in the secondary girls' 100-meter dash. Competing in her fourth Davraa, Martinez initially hesitated about athletics at age 12 due to fear of losing but took the risk, which has paid off with consistent medals since 2023. She expressed happiness at not wasting the opportunity and giving her all, despite physical pain. As the youngest in a farming family, she now sets her sights on the Palarong Pambansa, aiming for gold and a new record.
Cherry Ann L. Tangaro: Personal Best in Long Jump
Cherry Ann L. Tangaro, a 14-year-old from Sto. Tomas National High School, achieved a personal best of 5.34 meters to win gold in the secondary girls' long jump, even with worn-out shoes. She started athletics at age 11, initially thinking tryouts were just games, but has since developed a deep commitment to the sport. Tangaro trains six days a week and dedicates her victory to her family and coach, with her next target being a gold medal at the Palarong Pambansa.
These athletes' performances not only highlight their individual talents but also strengthen Davao del Norte's position in the regional competition, inspiring future generations in sports.
