NCR Palaro gathers steam with athletics, swim on tap

MANILA, Philippines - Action in the centerpiece athletics and medal-rich swimming begins today as the National Capital Region Palaro picks up steam in the second day of the sportsfest in various venues all over Metro Manila.

Medals will be up for grabs in athletics to be held at the Marikina Sports Park oval while the NCR’s top swimmers, led by 2013 Palaro double gold medalist Seth Isaac Martin, vie for honors at the Rizal Memorial pool in Manila.

Also clashing for top honors and spots in the Palarong Pambansa are those in the boys artistic and girls rhythmic gymnastics at the Rizal Memorial gymnastics center where a total of 10 golds will be up for grabs in the meet serving as the regional qualifiers for the Palaro set May 3-9 in Tagum, Davao del Norte.

Taekwondo will also have final events at the Santo Niño Gym in Parañaque while the archery competitions will be conducted at the Sevilla Archery Range in Novaliches, Quezon City.

During yesterday’s opening rites at the Aseana City grounds, Parañaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez, himself a former lawn tennis junior standout, challenged the athletes to strive for excellence “because I know the hard work, effort and sacrifice you have done to get this far.”