CEBU, Philippines – At least 60 foreign eksrimadors are already in town to compete in the Cacoy Doce Pares World Federation 2009 World Eskrima-Arnis Championships starting today at the City Sports Club-Cebu in the Cebu Business Park.
The tournament proper will start at 2pm.
Aside from host Philippines (Cebu) and defending champion Australia, the three-day tilt is participated in by eskrima and martial arts champions from Indonesia, New Zealand, Germany, Poland, Spain, Canada, Italy, England and United States.
To recognize their visit to the Queen city of the South, the city goverment through acting mayor Michael L. Rama tendered a welcome party last night at the Fort San Pedro led by event organizer Grandmaster Ciriaco “Cacoy” Cañete.
The official weigh-in will be held today after the registration. Afterwhich, there will be seminar of officiating officials to discuss the rules.
The tournament is also supported by the Department of Tourism under Secretary Ace Durano.
The growth of eskrima and its propagation in almost all parts of the globe have been recognized that’s why a world tournament is being held every two years.
The Australians, having the most number of entries, are heavily favored to retain their crown. They are spearheaded by Grandmaster Vince Palumbo of the International Combative Martial Arts Academy and Grandmaster Christopher Nasilowksi of the Millenium School of Martial Arts. - GGM (THE FREEMAN)