Fields

Our lack of good football fields was again highlighted last weekend during the Sinulog Cup Football Festival, which was played in two venues.

Although I managed to only go to the University of San Carlos-Talamban Field, I learned that the situation there was better than at the San Roque Parish Field in Subangdaku, Mandaue City.

The rains caused the fields to become very muddy and although they remained playable, it was obvious that the playing condition wasn’t very suitable.

Football has bounced back big time in Cebu for about a decade now. Festival-type events, like what was held over the weekend, brought a lot of interest into the sport and many schools, including those without playing fields, have formed teams.

I know how much effort the organizers put into making the fields better for the tournaments and it is very sad to see that despite their enthusiasm, many of the children don’t get to enjoy playing as much as they want.

If we have all-weather football fields or at least those that have good drainage systems, we can play games even in this kind of weather Cebu is now experiencing.

This might seem like asking too much, but if we want to really be better in the sport, the playing venues would be a primary requirement.

* * *

Rain wrought havoc in the 31st Coral Invitational early yesterday morning at the Cebu Country Club.

I was told that several players decided to call it a day without completing the round, but they look forward to going back for their second day with hopes of fine weather.

The PAGASA has announced yesterday that we should be expecting this kind of weather for the rest of the week until the Sinulog Grand Parade this Sunday.

One thing that I always make sure is in my golf bag is a plastic bag where I put all my electronic gadgets and wallet when I play during bad weather. If you haven’t bought a dry bag, a Ziploc bag will do.

* * *

Today, we remember a man, who did much for the Cebu sports community most especially for golf.

I am referring to the late Albino D. Gothong, who we fondly called Amo, whose 4th death anniversary we commemorate today.

Amo uplifted the standard of golf tournaments in Cebu and his legacy is something that we, who worked with him in the tournament committees in the past, are trying to live up to.

He is one man, who we sorely miss.

* * *

MILESTONES: Happy birthday greetings to Kabi Carabuena, Charrie Noel-Songalia, and An Abelgas, who are turning a year older today.

Advance greetings to those celebrating tomorrow like Commissioner Bernard Ricablanca of the CCSC and Dyan Tagimacruz.

More power to all of you!