Dragonboat group formed in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines - Dragonboat, one of the most underrated sports, yet one of the most consistent medal producers for the Philippines even on international competitions in recent years, is now starting to create ripples here in Cebu with the creation of the Dragonboat Cebu Central Philippines.

Though still establishing its group, DCCP is not wasting time as it aims to put Cebu in the world map again and make it the dragonboat capital of the Philippines.

That by promoting different clubs here and then hold not only a local circuit, but an international event within this year.

DCCP founding officers General Charlie Holganza and Alfonso "Pons" Alvarez said dragonboat is sport that is very suited to the Filipinos as more than the physical attributes, coordination, teamwork and unity are all needed for one to excel in this endeavor.

"It's an event that we can excel in. This needs coordination, teamwork and unity, which the Filipinos showed to the world that we have," said Gen.Holganza in a press conference yesterday at Sunburst Restaurant-One Mango branch. "Paddling is natural for us because we are islanders. Aside from its sporting nature, dragonboat is also a good team building activity."

Gen. Holganza first established the group of dragonboat rowers in Bohol two years ago and then in Davao with the prodding of former Philippine Sports Commission chairman William "Butch" Ramirez.

Alvarez, for his part, said Cebu is very much suitable for this sport for three major reasons.

"Aside from the fact that Cebu waters is clean, we have one, international airport, second, hotel and third, we have the Cebuanos plus those from Bohol and Dumaguete and others that can engage into this sport," said Alvarez.

He added that they want not only the older batch as they will reach out up to the grassroots level.

Alvarez said their ultimate goal is to bring an international race here in the shores of Cebu. Holding such wouldn't be a problem at all as it does not need building structures. Among the areas initially identified as possible venues for their future undertakings are the South Road Properties, Liloan, Bogo and Bantayan Island.

"An international competition, that is really our culminating event. We will be bringing in people from outside the country to compete here in Cebu," said Alvarez. "We will now have one sport that will put Cebu on the international map (of sports) again." (FREEMAN)