Talisay paddlers rule Balik Baroto Regatta

CEBU, Philippines —  Talisay City’s Charlie and Francisco Abapo reigned supreme in the Balik Baroto Regatta the other day at the South Road Properties.

The tandem of two fishermen registered the fastest time of 1:52:36 to claim the title. The duo of Marlon Abines and Virgilio Jumao were their closest pursuer with a time of 1:52:41.

Two-time Sinulog Baroto Regatta champion Lyndon and Ricardo Sumalinog, settled for third with a time of  1:53:11. The pairs of Jimmy Molinao and Arnold Cabalda (1:53:42) and Jonathan Lopez and Julius Domecillo (1:57:53) occupied the the fourth and fifth place, respectively.

Rounding up the top 10 were Fernando Lopez and Leonardo Peloner (2:00:28), Constantino Ramos and Dante Lucero (2:01:58), Antonio Lape and Allan Simblante (2:02:23), Gerald Anobling and Dexter Oca (2:02:50 ) and Roly Cagang and Jovanie Bonganaso (2:03:41).

Molinao and Cabalda bounced back by winning the baroto showcase competition, while the Abapos placed second as Abilas and Jumao-as wound up third.

Meanwhile, well-known paddler Buzzy Budlong expressed his sentiments to the organizers of the event and host LGUs to make the event open to all if not, have a separate race for enthusiasts like them as they too are promoting free-energy type of water sport.

Aside from fishermen, there are youth paddlers who are also interested in the baroto regatta event.