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Boljoon, Cebu-based British sportsman Stu Gould has egged on all the concerned sectors for an increased investment in sports especially in infrastructures and facilities because it is a vital element in the socio-economic development of a certain place.

Gould, who is the guest speaker in yesterday’s 25th Sportswriters Association of Cebu-San Miguel Corporation (SAC-SMC) All-Cebu Sports Awards at Casino Español de Cebu, said there is money in sports and by establishing a mega sports center will not only provide a potential income-generating venue for the Cebuanos but will also put Cebu on the international stage.

“There’s money in sports the world over,” said Gould, a football player and coach for 40 years now.

“To invest in this country’s youth with sports is vital. Maybe we should approach Cebu City Mayor Tommy Osmeña to put aside a portion of the SRP (South Road Property) for a mega sports center here. If properly designed, it could generate millions. A sports center of this magnitude would definitely put Cebu on the world stage.”

By having an increased investment in sports infrastructures, Gould said Cebu will have conducive place to train young athletes and eventually help them fulfill their dreams like representing the country in both national and international competitions.

Gould said he doesn’t think that lack of funds is the problem in accomplishing that goal, indicating that it’s just up to our leaders to view sports from the economic development perspective.

“It’s definitely not the lack of money as we’ve all seen billions flitted away by the elections over the past weeks. It think it’s the lack of will and social harmony,” said Gould, who is also a member of the Professional Association of Diving Instructor (PADI).

Gould, on the other hand, also encouraged the parents to support their sporting endeavors of their children. In that way, they can be a constant inspiration to their children’s quest for excellence in their respective disciplines.

Meanwhile, cue artist Antonio “Gaga” Gabica and tennis princess Sally Mae Siso were named as “co-Athletes of the Year” during the well-attended silver edition of the region’s longest running awards body graced by Romelinda “Girlie” Garces of the SMC-Visayas Corporate Office and the SAC members led by their president Enrico “Rick” C. Gabuya.

Gabica was honored for grabbing gold and silver medals in billiards event of the 15th Asian Games last year in Doha, Qatar, while Sally Mae capped her almost perfect year with a clean sweep in the four-led Malaysian Tennis Circuit.

MS Motosuit main man and race organizer Lou Ornopia almost ran out of words after claiming the coveted “Sportsman of the Year” award.

“I am overjoyed,” said Ornopia, who is credited for keeping the often neglected but crowd-drawing sport of motocross thriving in the region. Ornopia was humble and kind enough to share his award to all the people who in any way have contributed to the success of his tournaments and other projects.

Erwin Yu received the “Presidential Award” on behalf of his brother-in-law who is on a business trip in China, while Ludivina Hontiveros took the “Orlando C. Sanchez (ORLACSAN) Memorial Award” on behalf of his son Dondon, who is presently playing for the Philippine Team in the 18th FIBA Asian Champions Cup in Tehran, Iran.