In a peculiar showcase of speed, grit, and determination, three siblings bannered Zamboanga del Norte’s pride as they emerged dominating champions in the T-11, T-12, and T-13 categories of the Para Games Boy’s Athletics event on the first day of the Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association Qualifying Meet 2024 at Joaquin F. Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex, Zamboanga City. 

In the T-11 category (athletes with visual impairments), one sibling, Rodgie L. Paeste, trailblazed the track with unparalleled speed and focus overcoming the challenges posed by visual impairment as he dashed toward victory guided by his brother, clinching the gold medal leaving Zamboanga Sibugay to secure the silver medal while Dipolog City for the bronze medal. 

Meanwhile, in the T-12 category, characterized by athletes with moderate visual impairment, another sibling, Jerald L. Paeste, emerged supreme as he set for gold with his technique, grit, and agility while Zamboanga City settled for the silver and Zamboanga del Sur for the bronze. 

Completing the triumphant trio, the third sibling, a Palarong Pambansa player, Jerome L. Paeste, exuded power and precision in navigating the track as he stormed down clinching gold in the T-13 category while placing Pagadian City and Zamboanga Sibugay for silver and bronze, respectively. 

“Nasa isip ko dapat manalo ako para makasama ako sa Cebu. First time ko makasama sa Palarong Pambansa,” Rodgie excitedly narrated when asked what made him win in the event.

With the collective triumph of the pride of ZaNorte in the 100m sprint, the trio not only secured victories in their respective categories but also showcased the true spirit of resilience and determination thus, earning them tickets to Palarong Pambansa this July.

“Kumbate. Lalaban hanggang sa dulo. Hindi susuko”, concluded the T11 champion of ZaNorte.