03/10/2025
With unyielding spirit, the XU Crusaders Karatedo Varsity Team conquered the tatami at the 2nd Masanori Takahashi Memorial Karate Championship, hauling an impressive 23 medals last September 14 at the University of Visayas (UV), Cebu City.
Leading the charge, the women’s team delivered double championships that set the tone for the competition. The Women’s Advanced Team Kata, composed of Ailyn Amparo (BSBA FM 4), Jheskay Esparrago (BSBA MM 4), and Mary Factura (BSED Eng 4) clinched the title, while the Women’s Advanced Team Kumite—with Amparo, Esparrago, and Keisha Sailago (BSBA MM 4), also secured the championship title. In the Team Kata men’s division, Ivan Larrazabal (BS IT 2), Lleyton Santos (BSBA MM 2), and Aloysius Valmores (BSBA FM 1) finished in third.
In the individual events, Amparo extended her dominance with double golds in Advanced Kata and Advanced Kumite. Larrazaba also secured two gold medals in Intermediate Kata and Intermediate Kumite. Esparrago added a silver in Advanced Kata and a bronze in Advanced Kumite, while Factura and Sailago each brought home silvers in their respective Advanced Kata and Kumite divisions.
Adding further to the medal tally, Chrislene Nalitan (BSBA FM 3) struck gold in Intermediate Kumite; Walter Donasco (BSBA MM 2) bagged bronze in Advanced Kumite; Valmores added silver in the same event; and Santos contributed with a silver in Advanced Kata and a gold in Advanced Kumite.
Team Moderator Ned Jaudian shared: “The athletes were trained 10 times the intensity compared to their regular training to the point that they go beyond their limits every training.” He highlighted the athletes’ dedication and discipline in preparing themselves both mentally and physically for the event. “Back to zero in day 1 of our preparation,” he admitted, acknowledging that even with prior experience, they had to start over and work their way up again.
Reflecting on the victory, Team Captain Amparo expressed: “I want to be a model and be worthy as their team captain,” emphasizing that despite the mounting pressure, she remained composed and supportive of her teammates. Her top priority was not the title nor the number of medals, but rather the team’s safety and the enjoyment of the competition. “It will always be an honor to represent the University in any level of competition,” she added.
Competing for the first time, Santos echoed the importance of teamwork and support, saying, “This victory is not only for me but for all of us. The support from my teammates, coaches, and everyone who keeps supporting us made this possible, proudly bringing honor to Xavier Ateneo de Cagayan.”
The Crusaders’ triumph shines as a testament to the institution's athletics excellence, a victory fueled by zeal as well as honor on the national stage.
Report by William Barron and Athena Quipit
Layout by Justine Loreto