Sportsman in action

CEBU, Philippines - Name a multi-sport gathering in Cebu, especially school-based and developmental competitions, that he's not involved with and you will end up saying none. That is how important and valuable an organizer he is.

For years, Ricky Ballesteros has been entrusted by a number of corporate backers to handle their sports events, both national and international in scope, here in the Queen City of the South. He gained that shining trademark from his admirable work ethic and passion for his job. Not only he is full of energy and innovative ideas, he also goes extra mile in everything he does.

“I never get tired because I’m enjoying my craft. When I organize events, I want it to be unique. That is why I always introduce new things because I want it to be different from the others," said Ballesteros, one of the chief working force behind the success of Sinulog festivals, the Milo Little Olympics and various sports-related extravaganza here.

Ballesteros started organizing events particularly in sports in early 90’s when he was still the executive director of the Cebu City Youth and Sports Development Commission (CCYSDC), the precursor of the Cebu City Sports Commission (CCSC).

As a distinguished leader, Ballesteros relies on the 5S in sports – strength, stamina, speed, skill and the spirit to win.

“That’s why in the Milo Little Olympics, we don’t only instill physical and mental skills into the minds of these young kids. We also try to develop them in all aspects,” he said.

For Ballesteros, his job is not easy. It takes a lot of hardwork, patience and willingness to learn new things.

“Though I’m not new in this line of work, I’m still learning to improve my skills as an organizer. I have to be updated by observing, listening and getting advice and feedback from people I have worked with,” said Ballesteros.

Ballesteros also had his share of ups and downs. But for him, there's always a lesson to be learned and eventually make him perform his task even better.

“We’re just human beings. I just smile when it hurts. As an organizer, you have to have lots of patience,” he said. “There is no perfect organization, always expect the unexpected and you have to be always on the lookout, that's the lesson I have learned as an organizer."

“I also learned not to be complacent. You always work as if you’re a first timer. I always do my best in everything I do. I watch out even the smallest details in order to excel in everything,” he added.

Ballesteros' accomplishments weren’t left unnoticed. He was given a special recognition four times during Cebu City Charter Day celebration (2004, 2005, 2006 and 2010) for his invaluable contribution in the field of sports, culture and the arts.

In 2008, he was honored as "Sportsman of the Year" by the Sportswriters Association of Cebu (SAC). A year before that, he was feted by Nestle Philippines for helping Cebu establish the record for the biggest marathon races in Philippine history for four consecutive years (2004-2007).

Under his watch, the Visayas leg of the Milo Little Olympics became the largest spectacle among all regional eliminations. As if an icing on his cake, he steered Team Visayas to three consecutive national championships in the MLO.

Most recently, Ballesteros was among those who were credited for the highly-successful Visayas leg of the 15th Nestea Beach Volley last week at the HK Beach Resort in Moalboal, Cebu.

For now, Ballesteros is keeping his hands in the ongoing renovation of the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) track oval. Upon its completion, he will work hard again to transform it as venue for international excellence. — Marigold P. Lebumfacil (FREEMAN)