Nat’l Bangkarera lures record 155 boats; Cebuanos rule
ILOILO CITY—Armed with powerful single-piston engines while patrolling the seas, boat racers from all over the country found the perfect venue that satisfied their compulsion for speed.
On its third year, the Pioneer National Bangkarera drew a record number 58 teams and 155 boats on the coast of Villa beach in Arevalo town here.
“This tournament was designed to strengthen the camaraderie among boat racers nationwide,” said Alben Manuel, group product manager of Pioneer Adhesives, Inc.
“Outside of this event, they are fishermen and boat makers who greatly depend on the sea for their livelihood.”
After two days on the calm waters between Guimaras and Panay islands, Team Cebu 10 ruled the 16 horse power category with Ara Nicole from Hagonoy, Bulacan, and Alaska 032 of Zamboanga Sibugay placing second and third, respectively.
G Brosis Overtime of Estancia, Iloilo, topped the seven HP division after beating Blaze 095 of Pontevedra, Negros Occidental, and JRS 093 of Liloan, Cebu.
President and CEO John Spakowski II of Republic Chemical Industries Inc., the makers of Pioneer brand of adhesives, presented the trophies to the champions and the top finishers during the awarding ceremony late Saturday.
In the ASD (Angat Sa Dagat) category, Los Ninos 113 from Basiao Ivisan, Capiz, defeated Hayaan Mo Sila 116 of Barbaza, Antique, for the crown while Ghost Rider 106 from Unisan, Guimaras, finished third.
Adrian 149 from Tando, Guimaras, ruled the paddle boat (without engine) division while Nathaniel 148 and Faith 038 also from Tando town, placed second and third.
According to race director Bimbo Bensurto, the 16 and 17 HP category covers a racing distance of almost five kilometers where the boat racers go around several buoys in an out-and-back course.
“Within the next five years, we intend to highlight this as an annual sport that the country can look forward to. We will hold the races in different venue and increase the fan base,” said Manuel.
Over P1 million in cash prizes were given away.
