CARPE DIEM 2025: Honoring Triumph in Sportsmanship
By: Julia Talan
Just as Mario bravely journeyed worlds to rescue Princess Peach, the participants of “CARPE DIEM 2025: The Race to Victory” last January 24 exemplified a hero’s spirit as they conquered 12 noteworthy challenges in their quest for triumph. With PHP 5,000 for first place, PHP 3,500 for second place, and PHP 2,500 for third place on the line, the competition was fierce, with each team giving their all for a chance at victory.
The event kicked off with a fiery start after Ishee Barbasa and Denise Parungao, the Center for Sports’ Vice President and Treasurer respectively, gave their impassioned opening remarks and relayed the general guidelines for the game. The two recounted the preparations for the event as challenging, particularly with the logistics of the different stations. However, they said that it was ultimately rewarding, as Carpe Diem plays a necessary role in fostering school spirit during SPECTRUM, the annual school fair. The two expressed their sincere gratitude in a private interview saying, “[To the participants,] we thank you very much for joining Carpe Diem, and for helping us restore the Center for Sports pride and honor that Carpe Diem holds during St. Paul’s week.”
Powered up by the motivational words, the teams then quickly made their way to the station venues, darting across campus from the pre-school and grade school buildings to the high school halls to the St. Paul Activity Center for Excellence (S.P.A.C.E.) After completing all 12 stations, which consisted of challenges like calamansi relay, caterpillar balloon race, beirut, and more, the participants’ journey ended right where it started, a fittingly poetic end to an unforgettable race. It was at S.P.A.C.E where they had to face the final ‘boss’ and capture a photo as a complete team with the overall heads who were well-concealed.
After an intense competition, the results were in. Placing first was team Coconuts. Under their pajama-themed costumes was a mix of strategy, team work, and determination which secured their victory. Coming in second was St. Paul’s very own futsal varsity team–Team Bullswag–showcasing a strong bond and competitive nature that goes beyond the court. Finishing in third was Team Freezers, whose perseverance and skill earned them a spot on the podium. Taking the crown for the best costume category were The Agraws, whose coordinated T-shirts and themed face paint demonstrated their creativity and commitment.
This amazing race was nothing short of amazing–a true testament to the teams’ enduring wit, determination, and camaraderie. The event did more than just crown winners — it brought everyone together. By the end, it was clear that the real victory wasn’t just in the prizes, but in the unforgettable memories and connections made along the way. As the teams celebrated their hard-earned success, it was impossible not to feel excited for what next year’s race will bring.
