Over 8,000 student athletes from the Caraga region gather for the Caraga Regional Athletic Games (CaRAGa) 2024. Join us as we witness the region's best representatives compete in 25 sports disciplines and vie for a chance to qualify for the prestigious Palarong Pambansa. Experience the excitement and passion as these young athletes showcase their talents and represent their provinces on a larger stage. Don't miss this opportunity to support and cheer for the future stars of Philippine sports!
Caraga Regional Athletic Games 2024: Showcasing Young Talent and Pursuing Excellence
( Credit to: Rappler )
Over 8,000 student athletes from the Caraga region gathered at the Datu Lipus Makapandong Democrito O. Plaza Sports Complex in Prosperidad town, Agusan del Sur, for the opening ceremony of the Caraga Regional Athletic Games (CaRAGa) 2024. The event, hosted by the provincial government of Agusan del Sur, aims to select the region's best representatives for the upcoming Palarong Pambansa in Cebu.
( Credit to: Rappler )
The participating athletes come from elementary to senior high school students across the 12 public school divisions in Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Dinagat Island, competing in 25 sports disciplines.
Impressive Sports Complex and Facilities
( Credit to: Rappler )
The majority of the sports events will take place at the fully operational sports complex, which features a 3,000-seat capacity grandstand, a rubberized track and field oval, a football field with artificial grass, an Olympics-size swimming pool, air-conditioned courts for volleyball and basketball, tennis courts, and a 24-room hotel.
The facility was completed in 1994 but underwent further development starting in 2018 and was completed in 2023.
Prioritizing Athletes' Well-being
Due to the anticipated rise in temperatures caused by the El Nino phenomenon, outdoor games will be suspended from 11 am to 3 pm to prioritize the well-being of the athletes.
First aid stations and medical personnel have been deployed to the sports venue and billeting quarters to ensure the athletes' safety.
Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane Jr. has also taken measures to ensure the availability of water in the billeting quarters, setting up water tanks and having fire trucks on standby for assistance.
The fire department will be working around the clock to prevent any water shortages, although there is concern about the water source drying up due to the lack of rain.
Bid to Host Palarong Pambansa 2026
In March, the provincial government of Agusan del Sur submitted its bid to host the Palarong Pambansa in 2026.
If granted the opportunity, the provincial government plans to make even more preparations for the event.
Governor Cane expressed optimism and stated that they would start preparing as soon as they are officially selected as the host.
Platform for Young Athletes to Shine
The Caraga Regional Athletic Games serve as a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and represent their respective provinces.
It is an opportunity for them to compete at a higher level and potentially qualify for national competitions like the Palarong Pambansa.