Written by: Eioul Romm Jacob
Baguio City, Philippines — The University of Baguio School of Nursing hosted the SNlympics Amazing Race at the UB High School Volleyball Court on April 26, 2025, bringing together nursing students from first to fourth year for a morning of challenges, teamwork, and skill application.
Organized by the School of Nursing level 4 faculty, the event ran from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and gathered six teams — Green, Black, Gray, Red, Pink, and White — to compete in a dynamic race that tested not only their speed and coordination but also their mastery of essential nursing skills. The main objectives were to promote collaboration among students and to reinforce their clinical competencies in a fun, learning environment.
The SNlympics Amazing Race stands as a dynamic force in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, driving impactful change through education and collaboration. By championing SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), it sharpens students’ clinical skills, ensuring they are equipped to provide high-quality care. Through SDG 4 (Quality Education), it fosters hands-on learning that transforms knowledge into real-world expertise. Embracing SDG 5 (Gender Equality), the event empowers all genders with equal opportunities to participate and excel. Strengthening SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), it unites faculty and students in a powerful collaboration, reinforcing the importance of teamwork in achieving a sustainable future.
Throughout the event, students showcased critical nursing skills based on their year level. First-year students demonstrated fundamental skills such as vital signs taking, handwashing and gloving, and bed making for both occupied and unoccupied beds. Second-year students performed more advanced procedures, including IV insertion, intradermal, intramuscular, and subcutaneous injections, newborn care, and hands-only CPR. Third-year students exhibited their proficiency in OR instrumentation and the use of assistive devices like crutches. Meanwhile, fourth-year students tackled complex tasks such as ACLS (Megacode) management and packaging and splinting for trauma care.
After an exciting series of activities, the Red Team, coached by Sir Kenn Aglit, secured the Championship title. The Gray Team, guided by Sir Jerome Changitan, achieved 1st Runner-Up, while the Black Team, led by Sir Dennis Rommel Paraiso, finished strong as 2nd Runner-Up. The Pink Team, under the mentorship of Sir Matthew Aligmayo, earned 3rd Runner-Up. Meanwhile, the White Team, coached by Sir Froilan Pelico, and the Green Team, coached by Sir Hamsin Payacda, were awarded consolation prizes in recognition of their commendable efforts, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the competition.
For many participants, the event was a memorable experience that went beyond competition. Julizelle Lizardo, a member of the Red Team, shared, “This amazing race provided me with a new perspective on what to expect as a nurse and made me reflect on various scenarios in a hospital setting. I recognized the fears that each healthcare member experiences and the importance of remaining calm in highly anxious situations.”
Meanwhile, Jannah Pearl Bayucan of the Gray Team recalled, “I was initially somewhat anxious because I had not prepared for anything, but my teammates encouraged me by telling me that ‘andito lang kami’ and that everything is possible as long as we believe in ourselves.”
Faculty members also expressed immense pride in the participants’ performance. Ms. Fawn Maday-a, shared her thoughts, saying, “I feel proud and inspired by the turnout and performance of the participants in the SNlympics Amazing Race. The level of dedication, preparation, and professionalism displayed was truly commendable. Each competitor showcased exceptional skills across all categories. Their performance reflected not only strong technical competence but also a deep passion for their craft.”
When asked for a message to the students, she said, “Congratulations to all participants for your courage, dedication, and passion. Win or lose, your drive to grow reflects your commitment to the nursing profession. The future of healthcare is brighter because of you.”
The SNlympics Amazing Race 2025 was not just a test of speed and skills — it was a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and the shared commitment to the nursing profession. As the School of Nursing continues to champion both academic and professional growth, events like these ensure that UB nursing students are prepared to face future challenges with competence, compassion, and heart.
