Magalang, Pampanga – The ASCOT Arnis Team made their presence felt in the SCUAA III Arnis competition, securing two gold medals in the Rapid Live Stick category on February 27, 2025, at the Bren Z. Guiao Multi-Purpose Gym in Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU).

Jhon Kenneth Valenzuela showcased lightning-fast abaniko strikes, dominating the Lightweight Division, while Peter James Nangitoy overpowered his opponents in the Light Heavyweight Division with his precise redonda techniques—both securing gold for ASCOT.

For Valenzuela, the victory was more than just a medal; it was a testament to their relentless training. “The more you sweat in training, the less you bleed in war. Ito po yung aral na itinuro sa amin ng mga coach, at binaon ko noong mismong laban namin,” he shared.

Coach Jan Karla Guerrero reflected on the team’s growth, highlighting how ASCOT built on its previous silver finishes to now claim gold. “Hindi lang tayo atleta ngayon, kundi coach na rin sa iba’t ibang bayan ng Aurora! Sa susunod na SCUAA, hindi lang sa laban, kundi pati sa sigaw at suporta—mas marami na tayo.”

Beyond the gold victories, ASCOT’s Arnis warriors—Arthur Jay Aquino, Mark Loren Pascua, and Vian Karlo Soreño—also proved their skill, securing three silver medals and reinforcing ASCOT’s rising reputation in the SCUAA Arnis arena.

Coach Ralph Mamansag praised the team’s resilience, recalling their mental battles. “Low morale na kami dahil sa results ng game, pero sabi ko sa kanila, ienjoy nalang—every round 3, ‘showtime na!’ Fortunately, nakuha natin ang dalawang ginto para sa ASCOT,” he said, emphasizing the power of mindset and perseverance.

With these victories, ASCOT’s Arnis Team continues to make its mark, showcasing strength, discipline, and an unwavering fighting spirit that will propel them to even greater heights in the future!