Strength in stillness: Zachary’s golden moment at Batang Pinoy 2024
In the midst of competitions at the Batang Pinoy 2024 athletics arena, beats the heart of one athlete who stood tall, not for his size, but for his focus, grit, and quiet determination.
Zachary Lawig, a 17-year-old student from the University of Baguio, garnered the gold medal in the discus throwing event, marking a defining moment in his young athletic career.
Zachary’s journey into track and field didn’t begin in the discus throwing circle. He started as a middle-distance runner, only later realizing his potential lay in strength-based events. That shift opened a path toward discovering his true athletic identity.
Preparation for the competition was intense and methodical under the guidance of his coach, Arniel Ferrera, where Zachary committed to a daily routine of strength training and technical discus throwing.
The discipline was paired with mental conditioning, staying focused, keeping a strong mindset, and drawing strength from his faith as every effort in training was deliberate, every rest, intentional.
The lead-up to the sporting event was a process of building not just power, but confidence and faith in his many hours of dedicated training and practice.
When competition day came, Zachary faced more than just his fellow athletes but also the intense atmosphere which was heavy with pressure, and expectations were high.
Competing for the first time at Batang Pinoy, he battled nervousness and the intimidating presence of larger, more seasoned throwers which did not make him back down but inspired him instead to use the crowd’s energy and his team’s support to fuel his performance.
His winning throw wasn’t just about technique or power; it was about trust in his training, his preparation, and the people who believed in him.
The gold medal, while a physical reward, stands as a symbol of his growth and persistence.
More than personal success, Zachary views this achievement as a milestone in a much bigger dream: to join the national team, break records, and represent the Philippines in international competitions.
With that vision in mind, he continues to balance the demands of academics and athletics, determined to grow in both by leaps and bounds.
His message to young athletes is one of discipline and humility. Behind the powerful throw lies years of quiet commitment—and a reminder that greatness begins not with the loudest start, but with the strongest follow-through. – Jescilly Nils Viernes / Baguio PIO Intern /Gaby Keith
