Valenzuela City – The waters of Paraiso ni Baste Resort shimmered with energy and enthusiasm as young swimmers from various teams across the region gathered for the Splashdown Showdown Invitational Swimming Meet Class ABCD on March 23, 2025. Hosted by the Paraiso ni Baste Swimming Club, under the diligent leadership of their hardworking coach Ronald Frio, the event proved to be a resounding success.
With the sun shining brightly and the weather cooperating perfectly, the meet opened with a heartfelt prayer, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem. Swimmer Joaquin Andrei Osabel led the oath of sportsmanship, setting the tone for a day filled with competitive but friendly races.
Coaches Take the Plunge in a Thrilling Relay
The first event, an open mixed freestyle relay featuring coaches alongside their swimmers, brought waves of laughter and loud cheers from the audience. Seeing their mentors take to the pool sparked excitement among the young competitors, with enthusiastic shouts filling the air.
Exciting Raffles and Generous Sponsorships
Adding to the festive atmosphere was a thrilling raffle draw, with lucky winners receiving nearly 50 Arena swimming caps, generously sponsored by Madwave Philippines, and 5-kilo sacks of rice, courtesy of JB Rice. Coach Ronald Frio expressed his heartfelt gratitude to these sponsors, promising even bigger giveaways in future competitions. He also praised the dedicated parents of the Paraiso ni Baste Swimming Club for their unwavering support. “Without the parents, this event would not have been possible. Their efforts in securing sponsors, arranging the venue, and ensuring everything ran smoothly were truly invaluable,” he said.
Smooth Officiating and High-Level Competition
The competition was officiated by the Solid Swimming Coaches of the Philippines (SSCP), led by their dynamic president, Ronald Nicdao, who also served as the meet referee. Nicdao commended the event’s smooth execution, noting that almost no untoward incidents occurred, thanks to the cooperation of officials, swimmers, and spectators alike.
Stars of the Pool Shine Bright
The event saw a spectacular showcase of talent, with top swimmers delivering outstanding performances in their respective events. The most victorious and remarkable swimmers included:
• Candice Dale Donaire
• Niel Andrei Vidal
• Maria Aleondra Vista
• Liam Grey Añonuevo
• Sophia Poblete
• Dylan Carlisle Donaire
• Kaeley Vianna Cabalida
• Jacques Audric Reguyal
• Hannah Francheska Baguio
• Clint Cyrus Poblete
• Sinagtala Cuevas
• Kevin Bryle Chan
• Hanna Rafflyn Sales
• Juliana Laine Lagula
• Kenzzie Trey Dumanglas
Their impressive swims and unwavering determination electrified the competition, proving that the future of Philippine swimming is bright.
Team Standings: Champions Crowned
After a day of thrilling races, the final team standings were announced:
• Champion: Paraiso ni Baste Swimming Club – 1,279.50 points
• 1st Runner-Up: Atlantean Dolphins Swim Team – 1,125.50 points
• 2nd Runner-Up: Sharpeedo Swim Team – 1,047 points
• 3rd Runner-Up: Body and Mind Swim Club – 927.50 points
The home team, Paraiso ni Baste Swimming Club, emerged as the overall champion, further proving their dominance in the pool.
Appreciation for Sponsors and Supporters
The organizers extended their gratitude to all the generous sponsors who helped make the event possible. Special thanks were given to:
• Stage Pro Inc.
• Rogue Pest Management
• Advance Electronics Corporation
• Tyong’s Barbershop
• Jennies Chicharon
• Tyreman Autocare
• HB Logistics
• Vidal Family
• Kap. Rey Miranda
• Cruz Family
• Jok Dela Cruz
• Faustino Lim
• Rodrigues Family
• Aniversario Family
• Dee Family
• Riego Family
• Cuevas Family
• Roxas Family
• Tuhog Modern Barbeque
• Sticker Labels MNL
• White Essential Beauty Lounge
As the event came to a close, Coach Ronald Frio assured that future editions of the Splashdown Showdown will be even more exciting and rewarding for both swimmers and spectators. With the overwhelming support from sponsors, parents, and officials, this event has set a new benchmark for grassroots swimming competitions in the country.
Truly, the Splashdown Showdown Invitational Swimming Meet was a day to remember, filled with remarkable races, inspiring sportsmanship, and joyful celebrations of the sport we all love—swimming!