Refurbished Team Lakay Elyu gym reopens
KING MAKERS. Team Lakay coaches Mark Sangiao and Rogelio Capan look forward to producing more world champions in MMA after the reopening of the refurbished Team Lakay gym in San Fernando, La Union. (Team Lakay photo)
The newly renovated Team Lakay San Fernando Gym is teeming with high expectations, grit, and the promise of more championship belts hoping to inspire generations of fighters to come.
With its closure during the pandemic due to restrictions, the Team Lakay gym, located right at the heart of the capital city of La Union reopened to martial artists and health buffs alike on September 10 and hopes to produce another world champion.
Team Lakay honcho Mark Sangiao said the pandemic paved the way for its renovation giving the gym in line with the winning vibe, color, and design of its current gym in La Trinidad, Benguet.
Sangiao added Team Lakay San Fernando’s gym renovation was more than just a fresh coat of paint and modern equipment; it was a statement of intent and a promise that the winning vibe that had become synonymous with the team would now permeate La Union’s backyard.
Before its renovation, at least 10 would-be martial arts fighters honed their skills in grappling, boxing, and kickboxing.
“Since Team Lakay San Fernando was created, we were already molding at least 10 MMA fighters and until now, some have stayed,” said coach Rogelio Capan.
Capan added aside from producing a world champion in their gym, the likes of Jay Bayongan, Jezrel Cadiogan, Taro Barrientos, Edson Esteban, Jahn Serbo, John Ira Barrientos, Elvester Gaspar, Devrick Cordero, Eleazar Belgica, Aaron Posawen, Daniel Gwon, Christina Tirso, and Hyeoung Park were among the regulars who trained with the gym.
Capan however said some of them have transferred, while some have already steady jobs but still find ways to support the gym.
The gym’s renovation project aims to create an environment that would not only produce champions but also inspire the next generation of fighters.
And even with the departure of other fighters, Capan said John Ira Barrientos and Elvester Gasar are continuing to pursue their MMA career.
The Team Lakay gym, Capan added, is not exclusive to its fighters but they also welcome walk–ins wanting to train in MMA, boxing, wushu, kickboxing, circuit training, and grappling.
Capan said individuals or groups may avail of the different schedules for personal training, MMA, and grappling starting 9:00 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Interested individuals wanting to avail of their gym services may visit them at P. Burgos Street, San Fernando City, La Union, or contact Capan at (0998)578-4639. ### (PR)
