Despite protest, PSC to build sand court at PhilSports

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Sports Commission will push through with its plan to put up a beach volleyball sand court at the track and field oval of the PhilSports Complex in Pasig City despite the strong opposition of the Phl Athletics Track and Field Association.

"It will be built but we're open to a dialogue to explain our side," said PSC chair Richie Garcia Thursday.

Garcia was reacting to Patafa president Philip Ella Juico's letter protesting the plan because according to the latter, it "severely hampers" the thrower's training right on the same field.

Juico contended that the spot where the PSC is planning to put up a sand court is 58 meters away from the hammer circle and 50 meters from the javelin circle.

An elite athlete can heave as far as 58-62 meters.

Garcia, however, insisted the distance between the sand court and the circles mentioned was not 50 meters, but 80 meters.

"They were measuring where the sands are temporarily being put and not the exact spot we're putting up the sand court, which is 80 meters," said Garcia.

Garcia also stressed no one will be hurt.

"With the lack of space and facilities we have, we should share spaces. For example, the Ninoy Aquino Stadium is not only used by basketball and volleyball but three or four more sports associations as well," said Garcia.

"I think it's a matter of scheduling. If the throwers will use the field, then those who will use the beach volley court will use it after.

"I guarantee nobody's getting hurt," he added.