Patacsil Strikes Gold at R1AA Taekwondo, Eyes Palarong Pambansa Triumph 

Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-South La Union Campus (DMMMSU-SLUC) Laboratory High School (LHS) pride Richard Allan C. Patacsil emerged victorious at the highly anticipated Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) Meet after clinching the gold medal in Taekwondo Kyurugi against Ilocos Sur at the Robinson’s Place, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte on April 25, 2024. 

Defeating opponents from 13 divisions, Patacsil’s strategic brilliance and resilience were on full display in the championship match. His first-round encounter against Ilocos Sur saw him emerge victorious with a score of 3-1. Despite facing a setback in the second round with a score of 0-4, Patacsil refused to yield, outsmarting his opponent with a decisive 10-7 triumph in the final round after blowing a turning kick and a body kick.

In an interview, Patacsil expressed his gratitude to his coach, Ms. Thannia Joy Sabado, and everyone who has supported him before and during the R1AA. 

“I express my gratitude to Mr. Richard Villanueva, Ms. Marinel Flora, Mr. Romel Lorenzo, Mr. Kent Lorenzo, and Mr. Michael Stephen Gracias, who trained and helped me during the R1AA training,” said Mr. Patacsil. 

Additionally, Patacsil acknowledged the crucial role played by Mr. Francis Alabag and Dr. Antonio Calicdan in his preparation, which proved instrumental in clinching the gold medal in Kyurugi.

“I never imagined I would have the honor of representing our entire province at the Palarong Pambansa,” he added.

Ilocos Sur claimed second place, while Alaminos City and San Fernando City shared the third place. 

Patacsil’s remarkable achievement has not only brought pride and glory to DMMMSU-SLUC LHS and the province of La Union but has also earned him the opportunity to represent Region 1 at the upcoming Palarong Pambansa, set to take place in Cebu in July 2024. (by John Mark Lachica)