7th Olango Challenge slated May 17

CEBU, Philippines - "Build classrooms in Olango Island one stroke at a time." That is the chief driving force of the men behind the Olango Challenge as they hold the seventh edition of the country's premiere open water swimming competition on May 17 at Crimson Resort and Spa in Lapu-Lapu City.

Since the event's inception in 2007, the organizing Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSA) along with the Philippine Swimming, Inc. has already built three two-classroom buildings in three different barangays in Olango. The fourth one is still under construction as the manpower resources have been utilized in the rehabilitation projects on areas affected by calamities that hit the region last year.

PBSF Visayas chairman Antonio Aboitiz said in a press conference yesterday at Casino Español that they have generated P4 million out of the six editions, thanks to the participants, their families, friends and corporate sponsors who supported this cause-oriented event.

The seventh edition features a 6K and 2K distance for both the competitive and fun swimmers, who are allowed to use fins among others.

Cash prizes will be given away to the top performers, but donations from the swimmers themselves will be greatly appreciated.

Aboitiz also encouraged everyone to be part of the "pledge system" since the registration fee is not enough to raise a lot of funds.

"The registration fee alone cannot come up with a lot of funds. As always, this is not a money-making event. So we hope companies, the swimmers' family and friends will also go and pledge donations," said Aboitiz.

For those who want to join and pledge, one may call the PBSP Visayas regional office at (032) 232-52283 or 232-5270 or e-mail at [email protected]. (FREEMAN)