1st Columbia Duathlon in the Philippines

Columbia Sports Wear, in cooperation with Nuvali Evoliving, launched the 1st Columbia Trail Masters Duathlon last May 30 at Nuvali, Laguna.

Participants, who have registered from April 1 to May 14 and divided in three categories—Relay Category, Age Category, and Elite Prizes—step up and won in 5K Run-30K Bike-5K Run event. Winning parties received cash prices and gift certificates.

“The Columbia Trail Masters Duathlon series is our way in urging more Filipinos to engage in exciting and challenging outdoor sports,” said Tiffany Batungbacal, Columbia Brand Manager.

This special events is co-presented by Nuvali, Res/Toe/Run, R.O.X., Royal Carribean Jamaican Patties, Gatorade, Manila Water, and in partnership with Business Mirror, MultiSport, OneSport, Runner Speak, Run Radio, Action and Fitness and Takbo.ph.

For more information, contact Thumbie Remigio at 0915-6872380, Soleil Sanchez at 0916-7834839 of Columbia Sports Wear or visit www.columbiasportswear.com.ph.

Cebu Sports Science Seminar to be Held at USC

The country’s sought-after specialists in the field of sport science will share key information on how athletes and sports enthusiast can achieve maximum performance and be better than their competitors during the Sports Science Initiatives (SSI) Sports Science seminar series-Cebu leg on May 28 - 29, 2010 at the Theodore Buttenbruch Hall of University of San Carlos (USC) in Cebu City.

Organized by LAN Sports & Events Inc., and hosted by the USC Physical Education Department, the event aims to upgrade the knowledge and skill of Key Influencers such as Sports Coaches, Physical Education Teachers, Fitness Coaches, Physical Therapists, Nurses, Sports Science Students, Physical Education Students, Athletic Trainers, Conditioning Coaches, etc. through lecture-demonstrations.

Sports enthusiasts and athletes are always aiming to become stronger and better in their chosen sport. Proper training and conditioning are important to achieve this. Whether its basketball, volleyball, swimming, badminton, or contact sports, an athlete and their respective coaches and trainers need to understand what the body needs in order to achieve full potential.

Respected experts in sports science will share valuable information throughout the two-day event. Invited resource speakers include:

• Sanirose S. Orbeta, MS, RD, FADA - Sports Nutrition
• Dr. Jose Raul Canlas, Medical Director of the Moro Lorenzo Sports Complex - Sports Injury Management
• Pio Solon, CSCS, and Dean Hercules Callanta, College of Human Kinetics, UP– Diliman - Strength & Conditioning
• Dr. Julian Montano - Sports Psychology
• Josephine Joy B. Reyes, MPE - Career in Sports Science
• Niño Sinco – Fluid Guidelines for Performance.

The SSI Sports Science Seminar is sponsored by Phiten Philippines, TechnoGym, Gatorade, ASICS, Mueller Sports Medicine, and Hi Smart. This event is endorsed by the Philippine Association for Sports and Exercise Science (PHASES) and the Gatorade Sports Science Institute (GSSI), and Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).

Limited seats are available for 2010 Sports Science Initiatives Seminar Series - Metro Cebu. Registration Fee is PhP1, 000.00 inclusive of giveaways, handouts, lunch for both days, and Certificate of Participation. Deadline for registration is on May 24, 2010.

For more information about the event, contact Ms. Astrid Ocampo of the USC PE Dept at (0923) 280-7120 or Coach Pio Solon, CSCS at (0932) 641-9772 or email sps_initatives@yahoo.com.

Bike Festival Asia 2010

Filipino bikers from all over the country will again push pedals during the Bike Festival Asia 2010 to be held on May 21 – 22, 2010 at Terrazas de Punta Fuego in Nasugbu, Batangas.

The event aims to boost tourism in Southern Luzon and promote wellness and active lifestyle. This annual event is co-presented by the Department of Tourism (DoT) and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) (formerly Philippine Tourism Authority).

Competition is open to all bikers age 18 - 55 years old. Interested participants may register at L.E.N. Plus Inc., Unit F, Lower Ground Floor, CT. Center Building, 520 Shaw Blvd., cor. Old Wack Wack St., Mandaluyong City. Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon barbeque will be provided for all registered participants. Registration starts on May 10 to May 17, 2010.

For more information, contact L.E.N. Plus, Inc., at (632) 532-9443 or email lenplus@pldtdsl.net.

4th Men’s Health All-Terrain Race

Trail runners and mountain bikers will surely have their work cut out for them as they take part in the 4th Men’s Health All-Terrain Race to be held on May 16, 2010 in Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The Men’s Health All-Terrain Race is the most eagerly anticipated race in the country by both mountain bikers and trail runners. It’s is also the perfect springboard for new riders and runners to try something new and to push their limit.

Participants may choose to run the 6-kilometer, 10-kilometer or 16-kilometer trail course, or ride their bikes on the 20-kilometer or the 40-kilometer route. But for those up for the challenge, there is also the option to do both the 10-kilometer trail run and 20-kilometer bike ride. Racers will be running and/or riding on pavements, dirt roads and grass lands. They will also get the opportunity to admire the view from the top of a ravine, and get wet while crossing a river on their way to the finish line.

Registration is now ongoing at Akt!v Sports and Lifestyle Centers in Trinoma and Festival Super Mall, Recreational Outdoor Exchange (R.O.X.) in Bonifacio High Street and at the Summit Media Office at the 7th Floor of Robinsons Cybergate Tower 3, Pioneer St., Mandaluyong, City. Deadline of registration is on May 12, 2010.

Good food, cool music and, great company awaits all participants as the event coincided with Men’s Health Philippines’ Fifth Anniversary celebration.

The 4th Men’s Health All-Terrain Race is co-presented by Keen and sponsored by Cherifer Premium, Emperador Light with official venue partner, Nuvali; official timer, Timex; official outfitter, AllStar; registration partners, Akt!v Sports and Lifestyle Centers and ROX and official radio partner Magic 89.9.

For more information about the event, contact Summit Media Publishing at (632) 451-8888 local 1070 or 1071, visit www.menshealth.com.ph or grab a copy of the current issue of Men’s Health, available in newsstands, bookstores and supermarkets nationwide.

Subic Bay International Triathlon Draws 650 Participants

Considered as the biggest Subic Bay International Triathlon (SuBIT) since its conception in 1992, the 18th SuBIT boasted of a record 650-strong list of participants from over 23 countries. The Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) was forced to close down the registration even before the deadline with this unexpected yet welcome turnout of participants.

Slated last May 1 and 2 at the Subic Freeport Zone and presented in cooperation with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), this year’s edition of the SuBIT focused on young triathletes with the Asian Junior and U-23 (Under 23) Championships.

The U-23 category saw action in the 1.5 K swim, 40 K bike, and 10 K run, while the junior triathletes raced through 750 m swim, 20 K bike, and 5 K run course.

Said TRAP President Tom Carrasco, Jr.: “For this year, we decided to put more premium on the development of young triathletes who will take the place of current stars.”

Teams from Japan, Hungary, China, Kazakhstan, Korea, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, United Kingdom, Macau, Singapore, Iceland, France, Malaysia, Chinese Taipei, Indonesia, Poland, Israel, Syria, Belgium, and Norway all sent their contingents to battle the bets of the Filipino hosts.

The race began at the Dungaree Beach and ended at the Waterfront, with the female elite and U-23, female age groupers, junior sprint, adult sprint, mini sprint, and female interclub relay competing on the first day. The elite/U-23 male and age groupers and inter-club team championships were held on the second day.

Event sponsors include Speedo, David’s Salon, Globe Telecom, Sunkist, Vitwater, Asian Center for Insulation Philippines, Camaya Coast, Gatorade, Fitness First, and Rudy Project.

For more information, contact the Triathlon Association of the Philippines at (632) 710-8259, 974-2104 to 06, (63915) 643-0822, fax (632)809-2713 or 850-5254, or e-mail fabiedavid@yahoo.com.

1st Lapus Chess fest slated

The National Chess Academy (NCA), in cooperation with the Department of Education and sanctioned by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines launched the 1st Secretary Jesli Lapus Cup National Students age group chess championship.

The event is consist of four legs including the National Capital Region, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao which was slated last April 19 to 21, and still ongoing, at the Pasay City Sports Complex.

The age group is open to all school-ID bearing students and is divided into 2 divisions—the boys and the girls division. Each category is composed of three events: Under 12, Under 16, and Under 20.

NCA is a privately run chess skills training and development institution. This year’s objective of the tournament is for the NCA to contribute to the chess activities, which the Department of Education mandated to introduce and propagate in all private and public schools in the country.

The champion will receive P3, 000.00 cash plus trophy and gold medal, while the second and third placers will receive P2, 000.00 and 1,000.00 plus medals.

For inquiries, contact FA Ricky Navalta at 0920-9231150 or 893-8501.

Tarlac to Host Palarong Pambansa 2010

The provincial government of Tarlac will host the 53rd edition of the Palarong Pambansa to be held on April 11-17, 2010 at the Tarlac Recreational Park (TRP) in San Jose, Tarlac.

Prior to the event, a launching was held last February 18, 2010 simultaneously in four other towns -- Bamban, Concepcion, Camiling and San Manuel-- as a signal for the start of the Palaro 2010 countdown.

Tarlac province has started the counting from the 53rd day before the event as this is the 53rd Palarong Pambansa. The theme for this year is “Play for the Region, Win for the Nation”. The activity kicked off at 6:30 a.m. with all the 17 municipalities and one city in the province held a firecracker launch, simultaneous with the ringing of all church bells. This was followed by a province-wide cycling and motorcade.

The launching also introduced “Palaro” this year’s mascot. “As first time host, we mark this event with this mascot. We named “Palaro”, -- a multi-faceted yet roundly unified ball to symbolize the energy, the discipline and the verve that go with every jump, every kick and every bounce made during the games.” Gov. Yap said.

He also said that “much like Tarlac, dubbed as the melting pot of Central Luzon where diverse cultures meet and mix, mascot ‘Palaro” also represents convergence and oneness.”

The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Tarlac government also conducted a press briefing at the TRP where mechanics, security, fraud, accommodation of athletes, transportation, traffic and other matters about the competition were tackled.

Governor Victor Yap said that he was excited with the staging of the Palarong Pambansa in the province. He said that although there are some facilities that have not yet been completed, he assured that it will be done before the event. The DepEd, for its part, said that accommodations, mechanics, safety measures and other concerns were already been set.

Gov. Yap also emphasized that Palaro is a dream come true to all Tarlaquenos. “This is our chance to showcase our warm hospitality, our ability to handle the big sports event and to show not only to our countrymen but to the whole world as well the beauty of our province,” he said.

The Palarong Pambansa 2010 hopes to boost the province’s economy, especially the tourism industry. Some 25,000 guests from the country’s 17 regions are expected to attend the annual sporting event.

The 53rd Palarong Pambansa is in cooperation with the DepEd Task Force on School Sports and sponsored by Smart Communications, Inc., and SM.

For more information about the event, contact the Palarong Pambansa - Tarlac Secretariat at (6345) 6114148, (63910) 387-3956, email palaro2010@gmail.com or visit the Palarong Pambansa 2010 blog at http://palarongpambansa2010satarlac.blogspot.com/ or Tarlac Government website at http://www.tarlac.gov.ph/

Neophyte Surfers to Ride the Waves at 2nd Baler Beginners' Surf Competition

The Baler Beginners' Surf Competition, the biggest beginners' surf competition in the country is back. It will be held from April 9 – 11, 2010 at Sabang Beach in Baler, Aurora.

Now on its second year, the event encourages newbie surfers and those who’d like to try the sport to learn from veteran surfers and experience riding the waves this summer. The competition is open for all first timer surfers, even spectators. Get the chance to meet new friends, eat great food, take home freebies, and a chance to win really cool prizes. Special awards such as Best Rides, Worst Wipe Outs, Best in Surf Wear, and more, will be conferred during the event.

Registration fee is PhP. 3, 800.00 for competitors and PhP. 3, 300.00 for spectators. Package include two nights-3 days accommodation (group sharing), transportation (Private Bus), 5 free meals (3 breakfasts, 2 dinners), two (2) sets of one hour surf lesson and board rental, and official event t-shirt. Participants who will be joining will have to pay down payment of Php 1,500. Full payment will be collected on the day of the event.

The 2nd Baer Beginners’ Surf Competition is organized by Surfari Philippines and MAHDOX Surf School and Surf Shop together with Aloha Boardsports.

For inquiries call or text Mr. Jasper Enriquez at (63922) 852-7737 or Benjamin Uy at (63922) 844-3729.

Local Skimmers Head out to CamNorte for First Ultimate Regional Skim and Skate Challenge

Witness top regional skimmers battle it out for skim supremacy with ingenious moves guaranteed to be served fresh, hot and deliciously spicy during the 1st Ultimate Uragon Regional Skim and Skate Challenge and Luzon Skim Jam slated on April 3 – 4, 2010 at Bagasbas Beach in Daet, Camarines Norte.

The event is when Bicolano and Luzon skimmers and skaters will gather to compete in one of the first ever regional skim and skate challenge held in one of Camarines Norte’s Skim havens. An almost two kilometer expanse of flat, fine grey sand conveniently located 10 minutes away from the bustling town of Daet awaits skim aficionados from all skill levels.

The skate event will be held in the Bagasbas Pavilion and an 8km, Mercedes-to-Bagasbas Push race will kick off after that. There will be different classes and division for amateur and expert skimmers and a longboarding competition during the event.

The 1st Ultimate Uragon Regional Skim and Skate Challenge and Luzon Skim Jam is supported by San Miguel Corporation, Provincial Government of Camarines Norte, Slick Surf Skimboards Pilipinas, Junior Chamber International (JCI) – Philippines, and Department of Tourism.

Registration fee is P300.00 inclusive of event shirt and 2 lunch stubs. For more information, contact Slick Surf Skimboards Pilipinas at (63908) 881-5075 or visit their website, http://slicksurf.multiply.com/.

JAPI held Golf Classic for a cause

The 21st Junior Achievement Golf Classic of the Junior Achievement of the Philippines Inc. (JAPI) set last March 5 at the Canlubang Golf and Country Club in Laguna.

With Business World as its major media partner, the Golf Classic aims to raise funds for JAPI’s programs on entrepreneurship and Youth Development. Moreover, it is also a way for companies & potential donors to learn more about the organization and its programs.

JAPI is a see-registered, a non-stock and non-profit organization. It has been giving students opportunities to learn about entrepreneurship & manage a business through mentorship program. Morever, JAPI envisions to develop future business leaders, inspiring and equipping students to understand business, economics and entrepreneurship. They also aim to educate and inspire young people to value entrepreneurship, to understand the dynamics of business and economics, and to be workforce ready.

This successful golf event was spearheaded by JAPI’s trustees: Ernesto Alberto of PLDT; Enrique Umali of Energizer; Geronimo Latinazo of EMC; Gerard Sanvictores of SGV; Angelito Gabriel of Isla Lipana; Laura G. T. Lariosa of Nortel; Gil Chua of DDB Philippines; George Macasero of Entrepreneur Society of the Philippines; Stephen Thomas Misa of Cisco; Danilo Mojica of Smart Communications; Siripong Phoungpaka of PTT Philippines; Eric Recto and Marilou Erni of Petron Corporation; William Schultz of Coca Cola; and Ernst Wanten of Total Petroleum Corporation.

PhilCycling stages RP Open 2010 in Danao

Last February 19 and 20, 2010, PhilCycling, which is the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI)-recognized federation, staged 2010 National Open for mountain bike in Danao City where most international competitions are held, few of those were 1998 Asian Open Championships and the 2005 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

“Danao City has maintained its MTB (mountain bike) courses that suits to UCI standards and we expect the competition to be tough and tight,” said Danao City Councilor Oscar “Boying” Rodriguez Jr., who is PhilCycling’s chairman and UCI international commissaries for mountain bike.

Mayor Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, the PhilCycling president informed that road race events – massed start and time trials – for the open were conducted in Tagaytay City.

The track competitions, on the other hand, were held in the same week at Quezon City’s Amoranto Sports Complex where a 400-meter velodrome stands.

The PhilCycling would also be sending riders to the Asian Championships for road and track, the Asian Mountain Bike Championships and the Track Asia Cup later this year to be hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

For more information, visit the website http://philcycling.wordpress.com, or call 0916-641-9770 or 0920-456-2227.

PSC Celebrates 20th Anniversary with All in Sports Expo 2010

In celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the Philippine Sports Commission, players, coaches, and sports enthusiasts are invited to take part in the country’s newest sports and fitness expo: the 1st Philippine Sporting Goods and Facilities, Fitness Equipment, Apparel and Footwear, Hobbies, Recreation and Health-Related Products and Services Exhibition (All in Sports Expo 2010) scheduled on February 25 – 28, 2010 at the newly-renovated Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Malate, Manila.

Organized by the Philippine Sports Commission in partnership with Global-Link MP Events International, Inc., the event will be an exhibit of the latest in the sports and fitness industry, featuring products, services, and technology form top local as well as foreign companies.

All In Sports Expo 2010 will coincide with the Commission on Higher Education - Private Schools Athletic Association - State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (CHED-PRISAA-SCUAA) National Games - the biggest sports competition among private and state colleges and universities in the country. The games will showcase young athletes from 17 regions across the Philippine battle it out to become achieve high honors in their respective sports, including judo, badminton, tennis, swimming, athletics, and baseball.

Aside from display of sporting goods and items sold at discounted prices, other activities have been lined up for the four-day sports expo. There will be an inter-school tournament and exhibition on the country’s National Sport, Arnis. Philippine Taekwondo's best athletes will compete for the Metro Manila Open Championship. Philippine Grandmasters will face-off in a chess tournament. Other activities include bodybuilding exhibition, international dance competition for the youth in multiple subjects and styles including hip-hop, jazz, and ballroom, Tennis Exhibition Match between top athletes in men's and women's divisions, and a Sports photo exhibit featuring the greatest moments in Philippine sports from 1990 to present.

For more information about the event, contact Global-Link MP Events International Inc. at (632) 750-8588, 887-1304; fax (632) 750-8585; email: info@globallinkmp.com, or visit their website at www.globallinkph.com.

World’s Best Ballroom Dancers Face-Off at 3rd Philippine StarBall

The country’s biggest, grandest and most anticipated ballroom dance competition is set to take center stage once again at the 3^rd Philippine StarBall to be held on February 13, 2010 at the Rizal Ballroom of Makati Shangri-La Hotel in Makati City.

Organized by the Council of United Professional Dance Teachers of the Philippines (CUPDTP), the event aims to bring the best in the world of ballroom dancing to the Filipino audience. The event is spearheaded by organizing committee chairman Michaela “Pinky” Puno, wife of Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno, who personally invited the top competitors she saw at the Blackpool Festival and the Internationals competition in London.

Top professional and amateur ballroom dancers from around the world will show their skills in what is to be the most celebrated dance competition in this part of the globe. About 80 international, high caliber dancers will participate in this year’s Philippine StarBall. They will be coming from all over the world—USA, Italy, Denmark, Russia, Lithuania, Slovenia, Poland, Australia, Germany, Serbia, England, Bulgaria, Croatia, Latvia, Canada, Norway, Moldova, Azerbaijan, Austria, as well as our Asian countries—Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Japan.

This event, recognized by the Games and Amusement Board, is supported by the Department of Tourism and First Gentleman’s Foundation. The 3^rd Philippine StarBall is for the benefit of Kythe Foundation, which helps children with cancer.

For more information, contact the Philippine StarBall Secretariat. Ms.Marissa Manese at (632)812-8464, email Ms. Pinky Puno mpuno@aol.com, michaela.puno@gmail.com or Mr. Jose "Jojo" Cariño, CUPDTP President at jojocarino@gmail.com or visit the official website at http://www.philippinestarball.com/

Ballooning Goes To New Heights at 15th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Hot air balloons paint the sky once again for the 15^th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF). This dazzling event will be staged at the Clarkfield Economic Zone in Pampanga on February 11-14, 2010.

The PIHABF is an annual event featuring balloons from all over the world. Over the years, it has become a convention of sorts including aerosports and other aviation-related pursuits.

Tagged as the “Weekend of Everything That Flies”, viewers will be treated to a spectacular air show featuring regular and special-shaped hot air balloons coming from all over the world. Other activities include skydiving exhibitions, paragliding, aerobatics, airplane and helicopter flybys, balloon-bursting competitions, professional kite flying, remote control aircraft displays and a whole lot more! There will also be ground activities like food courts and fly markets, car exhibitions, army aircraft and gear displays, aviation schools exhibits, photo contests and other exciting events. It’s definitely a treat for the whole family.

The 15th PIHABF will also stage the 2010 Aviation Awards, which aims to recognize several outstanding people who exemplify the highest standards of flying and service, or have made extraordinary contributions to the aerospace industry in the year 2009. The recipients of the 2010 Aviation Awards will be honored at the awards ceremony and dinner scheduled on February 13, 2010.

The 15th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is sponsored by United Parcel Service (UPS), Krukspec Tactical Gear, Marquee Mall, Asian Air Safari, Angeles City Four Wheelers Club http://216.55.144.142/ac, DSV Logistics, Caltex, Cebu Pacific Air, Circus Aircraft, Global Gateway Logistics City, Yellow Cab Pizza, Ayala Malls, Recreational Outdoor Exchange (R.O.X.), Clark Development Corporation, Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, Air Force City, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Philippine National Police.

For more information and a detailed schedule of activities, contact Asian Air Safari at (632) 384-0085, (63927) 340-4994 or visit the event website at http://www.philballoonfest.net.

Philstar.com bares Christmas Celebrity Run 2009

Celebrating a more meaningful Christmas this year, philstar.com is calling online community members, lifestyle aficionados, sports enthusiasts and race buffs to join the Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 on December 20, 2009 at the Fort Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.

“We invite everyone to celebrate the yuletide season with us and support our campaign to connect Philippine public high schools to the world by joining Christmas Celebrity Run 2009,” said philstar.com General Manager Katrina-Sandejas Mañosa.

The event was designed as a venue where philstar.com online community members can interact with celebrities, who share the same passion for running, healthy lifestyle, online literacy and charity work.

Heading the celebrity roster, according to Manosa, are Christine Jacob-Sandejas, Maricel Laxa, Anthony Pangilinan, Gary Valenciano, Rovilson Fernandez, Marc Nelson, Claudine Barreto, Raymart Santiago, KC Concepcion, Piolo Pascual and Drew Arellano. Business tycoons Jaime and Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Fred Uytengsu and Lance Gokongwei are likewise expected to put on their running gear during the event.

Special prizes await the top three runners in the male and female divisions of the 3-kilometer, 5-kilometer, and 10-kilometer races. In the 21-kilometer race, two winners will be chosen (one male and one female) in each of the five divisions: 18-25 years old, 26-30 years old, 31-29 years old, Male (40 and above) and Female (35 and above). More prizes await those who come in costumes looking like celebrities. Three participants will be named Best in costume (Celebrity Look-a-like).

“More than the social and healthy benefits of running, philstar.com’s Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 will also help fund the computerization program of GILAS (Gearing up Internet Literacy and Access for Students), a multi-sectoral initiative spearheaded by the Ayala Foundation program,” Ms. Mañosa explained “This is in line with our corporate social responsibility of nurturing not just the online community but helping spread online literacy as well.”

Initially scheduled Oct. 11, the race was postponed to give way to relief, clean-up and rehabilitation efforts in Taguig, one of the urban areas badly hit by tropical storm Ondoy last Sept. 26.

The philstar.com Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 is sponsored by Adidas, Yahoo! Philippines, E-Games, Brazilian Agaricus 8-in-1 Herbal Coffee, Crocs, Nutribar, SMART Communications, Inc., Coppertone, Aqua Blue, Sport Beans, Timex, Chris Sports, Vitwater, Mizuno, Paul Calvin's Deli, McKinley Hill, and One Tagaytay Place, Action and Fitness Magazine, Men’s Health Philippines, Women’s Health Philippines, Magic 89.9, AXN-Asia, Jack TV, Jobstreet, Chikka, People Asia, The Philippine STAR, NU 107, and takbo.ph.

For more information, contact project director Mr. Ian Alacar at (63929) 6496762 or philstar.com at (632) 527-6856, email marketing@philstar.com, or visit www.philstar.com.

Fueling the World Cup “Kick”

Revving up its engines for the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2010, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) hosted “ Diski Night: A Jumpstart to the FIFA World Cup 2010” at One Esplanade in Pasay City last Dec. 8.

Diski Night was divided into three segments: First was the establishment of Philippine Football Hall of Fame, second is the recognition and handing of awards to special people in football world, and third is the acknowledgment of individuals who have contributed to the growth of Philippine football. The all-night event also included a dinner, the “Diski Dance,” and an art auction, all in the same venue.

Sponsors for the event were Business World, Magic 89.9, Balls, and the Department of Tourism.

FIFA World Cup 2010 partners and sponsors were: Adidas, Coca-Cola, Emirates, Hyundai, Kia Motors, VISA, Sony, Budweiser, Mc Donald’s, MTN, Continental, Castrol, and Satyam.

For more information, please contact the PFF at (02) 571-2871 or GWorld Inc. at (02) 719-0184 or (02) 215-0512.

Philippine Kayaking Series

Red Bull Kayak Explore Cebu-Bohol Island Crossing
3rd and final leg of the 2009 Philippine Kayaking series December 4 to 6

The third and final leg of the Philippine Kayaking Series was a Cebu-Bohol channel crossing that featured a 3-legged 125K marathon and a novice race.

Entitled Kayak Explore Cebu-Bohol crossing, the 3rd run held last December 4 - 6, 2009 followed the route of Mactan Island to Bohol, where paddlers crossed the 125-km scenic route passing through a motley of islets, coves, mangroves and river deltas.

With more than 100 participants who attended the three-day event, Kayak Explore Cebu and Bohol began from Punta Engano following a 5-km coastal run along Mactan Island passing through resorts and other sites, then on to Olango, down to Getafe, Bohol. The race moved eastward towards Panglao passing through coastwise and municipal waters; stopping by at designated control points where local packages and tours are introduced. Coastal municipalities participated with their local cuisine, products and cultural presentation.

The kayak marathon had three classes, the sit-in tandem, the sit-on-top tandem and the Singles Open. However, the number of entries was limited to 30 teams in the tandem class and 10 in the singles open to compensate for the number of kayaks provided by the organizers. Entry fee for participants was pegged at P900 per person.

Apart from the kayak marathon, the event also conducted kayaking clinics, 5-km novice races, eco-touring flotilla, island hopping, moonlight paddling. The flotilla was for pre-booked tourists, sight seers and race supporters who will be riding bancas following the route of the paddlers and stopping at eco-cultural tourism sites and attractions in the coastal communities along the way.

A mini fair of eco-tour packages such as the New Adventure-Kayak Hundred Islands, Historic Manila Bay Kayaking Adventures; Luxury Kayaking Safari in Bacuit Bay, Palawan, and Bohol Extreme Packages: Kayamping (Kayak and Camping) were also held on site.

The three-day event had overnight sleep-overs at locations in Tubigon and Maribojoc. Finish line was set at the Bohol Beach Club, while awarding ceremonies and a victory party was conducted at the Dumaluan Beach in Bolod.

Cousins German Paz (National Windsurfing Team) and Johnder Austria, who hail from Anilao, Batangas, won against local teams in the 125-km race tandem division clocking in a total time of 11 hours, 33 minutes, and 13 seconds.

Bohol’s Jerome Abuyador and Jerwin Castro, meanwhile, managed to finish second despite incurring a 30-minute penalty, while Irene Quisido and Lito Lapure, the only mixed duo in the field, finished third place.

In the singles division, Doyet Dumaluan topped with a total time of 13 hours, 11 minutes, and 58 seconds despite being slapped with a 30-minute penalty. Dumaluan, a doctor by profession who owns 50 kayaks, initiated kayaking in Bohol.

Cebuano engineer Dondon Dimpas came in second at 14:04:10, while Buzzy Budlong of Team Habagat finished third at 14:17:10.

Aside from trophies and other major prizes from sponsors, champions in the tandem categories were given P20,000 while the second and third finishers received P15,000 and P10,000, respectively. First prize in the singles category was P10,000 while the second and third finishers got P7,500 and P5,000, respectively.

The DOT together with the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC) supported the event. Business sector representatives who pledged their support for the event are: Rommel Aquino of Montanara, Allan Santos of Bohol Beach Club, Tambuli resorts, Ric Mercado of Red Bull, Shake Valerio of Cebu Pacific, Anton Bautista of Cord Chemicals and Robert Rezalde of Mojo.

Major sponsors are Cord Chemicals; Cebu Pacific; Bugsay Kayaks; Montanara Sports Gear; Mojo Sandals and Slippers; Habagat Outdoor Equipment; David's Salon; and Union Jack.

Prize donors are Jump Off Point and Waterfront Airport Hotel; Conquest Sports Equipment; Dunkin Donuts; Islands Souvenirs; Headware; Casa Francis Rey; Image Marketing; One Tagaytay Place; Le Bistro and Bohol Limestone Corporation.

Media partners are Inquirer; Business Mirror; Action Asia; MTV-Phils; Studio 23; justgo.ph; Decisive Moments; Monster Radio 105.9 Cebu; Bohol Chronicle and DYRD; 102.3 Kiss and DYZD Bohol stations.

The Philippine Kayaking Series, promoted by the Department of Tourism and organized by the Philippine Kayaking Association, aims to identify kayaking trails in the country. Aside from promoting kayaking as an adventure sport, the event also aims to establish sustainable eco-tourism programs in different provinces.

For inquiries or more information on Kayak Philippines and its events, call 4687091; 8725478; 0915-435-9321; email philkayaking@yahoo.com or visit http://www.kayakphilippines.com.

Philippine Extreme Sports and Rock Festival Urges Super X-Series for RHB Muziklaban 2009

Muziklaban once more staged another milestone from the usual band concerts it brings! Last December 5, 2009, Muziklaban brought the Philippine Extreme Sports and Rock Festival Urge Super X-Series Xports and Music Tour 2009 to rock with the athletes-on-the-streets.

Aside from the known bands of the generation such as Slapshock and Jeepney Joyride, Skateboarders and BMX Stuntmen gathered together at the Open Parking, (Near Brick Road, Imelda Ave.Entrance), Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall and joined the event that also featured the Grand Finals of Skateboarding and BMX Stunt Park Competition, Best Trick Contest, Big Air Contest, Professional Demonstrations, and Interactive events.

Other bands who joined the event were Chonckeys, Even, More Than Linda, Descant Gott, Live Tilapia, Intolerant, April Morning Skies, COG, Bloodshed, and Hardboiledeggz.

Red Horse Muziklaban is an annual rock band competition that has been held in the Philippines since 1999 and is sponsored by San Miguel Brewery for Red Horse Beer.

The Philippine Extreme Sports and Rock Festival Urge Super X-Series Xports and Music Tour 2009 was sponsored by San Miguel Brewery Inc., Dickies, Daily Tribune, NU 107, The Manila Times, MonsterRadio RX 93.1, Rakista.com, Tonight , and Hotel SOGO.

For more information about the event, do visit the websites www.urgesuperx.com or www.redhorsebeer.com.

34th National Duckpin Kegfest

The 34th National Invitational Open Duckpin Bowling Championships showcased big cash prizes at the Marketplace Bowling Center in Mandaluyong City last November 27 to December 6, 2009.

Philippine Duckpin Bowling Council (PHIDBC) President of Organizing Inez G. Magbual stressed that the men’s and ladies’ team champions bagged Php. 35,000 and Php. 30,000. The second-placers, on the other hand, received Php 20,000 each for the men’s and ladies’ singles champions (ABC) , Php 9,000 each for the runner-ups and Php 7,000 each for the third-placers. Moreover, the men’s and ladies’ high team single scores received Php 1,000 each and Php 500 each for the individual high single, top single and hi-pinning scores.

Prizes for the mixed-doubles event, however, were based on the number of participants that joined in the competition.

Then Representative, now Senator, Bongbong Marcos of Ilocos Norte, attended the competition to grace the association’s traditional Christmas party on December 3.

ARPI on its National Encounter

Arnis Philippines (ARPI) held the Annual Arnis National Encounter last November 27 to 29, 2009 in two different venues.

The eliminations in anyo (form) and full contact sizzle was held in the first two days at the Philsposrt Multi-Purpose Arena (formerly ULTRA), while the championships unfold on the last day at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

Overall winners for all categories are as follows: Western Visayas College of Science and Technology (1st) with 8 gold, 7 silvers, and 2 bronze medals; Philippine Air Force Arnis Team (2nd) with 6 gold, 6 silvers, and 5 bronze medals; and Baguio Arnis Team (3rd) with 5 gold, 1 silver, and 3 bronze.

ARPI President Raymond Velayo confirmed the participation of around 500 arnisadores from different areas of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Moreover, Velayo stated that the winners for this competition will represent the country in forthcoming Arnis International Encounter in Manila, and other international meets in 2010.

For more information about the event, email Arnis Philippines at info@arnisphilippines.com or visit their website http://www.arnisphilippines.com/.