VISSA swimfest unfurls today

CEBU, Philippines - A bunch of visiting swimmers are out to give the local bets a tough challenge as the 19th VISSA Swimming Competition gets underway today at Sacred Head School-Ateneo de Cebu campus in Canduman, Mandaue City.

For the first time, a masters category will be featured in the event organized by the Visayas Integrated Schools Swimming Association (VISSA). The other age brackets to be contested are the 24-29, 30-39 and 40-above.

The out-of-town entries come from Surigao City, Catbalogan and University of Bohol in Tagbilaran.

For Cebu, Talisay fields in the most number of entries with more than 50 spread in different teams that include the Maroca Swim Team and Talisay Poseidon manned by Korean tankers.

The rest of the participants expected to see action are from St. Theresa's College, University of San Carlos, Maria Montessori International School, Bright Academy, Narwhal Swim Team, Pool Pirates and host SHS-Ateneo de Cebu.

The novice and age-group competition take place today, while the masters event will be held tomorrow. (FREEMAN)