By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Iloilo Tinagan School of Martial Arts Inc. (ITSMAI) dominated the 11th RNKA Karatedo Championships on April 6, 2024, at the City Mall in Mandalagan, Bacolod City.
After a day full of action-packed events in the prestigious tournament, the talented Ilonggo Karatedo athletes took home a total of 18 medals: seven golds, six silvers, and five bronze medals.
The Ilonggo representatives were coached and supervised by veteran mentor and one of the pillars of ITSMAI, Mr. Gerald Tinagan.
Leading the pack of the gold medalists for ITSMAI was Summer Dawn Tinagan who reigned supreme during the 6-7 years old kumite (girls) category.
Meanwhile, Ameila Victoria, ITSMAI’s representative in the 16-17 years old -48kg (girls), made waves and pulled off a perfect round to deliver the second gold medal for ITSMAI.
Completing the list of ITSMAI’s gold medalists are Thirdy Bañes, Adrian Gabriel Solas, Pio Joemarie Judilla, Bryan Bert Bancolo Jr., and Archail Monton.
Those who managed to nab the silver medals are the following: Sean Daniel Acelo, Dionamae Belleza, Jacob Kristof Argenal, Lucian Cauis Austria, Bancolo Jr., and Solas.
Wrapping up ITSMAI’s stellar outing in Bacolod City are the crucial performances of Rogem Pelaez, Tinagan, Argenal, Monton, and Bancolo Jr. who made the last trip to the podium finish.
Just a month ago, ITSMAI stole the limelight during the 5th Karate Pilipinas National Championships held at the Tagaytay Combat Sports in Tagaytay City.
The llonggo Karatedos delivered six gold medals, one silver, and three bronze medals after three days of intense competition.
“I would like to thank Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation Inc. President Shihan Richard Lim for this great opportunity to our Tinagan Karatedo Athletes (TKA) and also to our very supportive TKA Parents,” said Mr. Tinagan during an exclusive interview with the Daily Guardian.
