MIXED MARTIAL ARTS. Team Lakay coach Mark Sangiao says training of mix martial arts fighters will continue through the Grappling Cup at YMCA-Baguio City on March 3, 2024. Team Lakay has produced world-class MMA athletes and Sangiao traces this achievement to grassroots level training. (Photo courtesy of Team Lakay)
BAGUIO CITY – Fighters aged 16 years old and above are encouraged to join the Grappling Cup here on March 3 in line with the bid to hone more mix martial arts (MMA) practitioners who can vie in international competitions.
“This is one of the grassroots training and exposure we do to be able to help our young people here,” Team Lakay coach Mark Sangiao said in a statement on Tuesday.
Team Lakay, a martial arts training center based in Benguet’s capital, La Trinidad, is a primary source of top caliber MMA fighters who have represented the country abroad.
Among its world famous fighters are Eduard Folayang, Kevin Belingon, Honorio Banario and Joshua Pacio.
“The holding of the Grappling Cup is Team Lakay's commitment to reach out to the grassroots level and provide opportunities for aspiring grapplers to hone their skills and compete on a larger stage,” Sangiao said.
Sanguio said Team Lakay partnered with non-profit organization YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association) to further broaden its commitment to community engagements through sports and in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
A memorandum of agreement will be signed after the tournament. (PNA)
