Church wedding finally for Nonito, Rachel Donaire

MANILA, Philippines—They chose a once-in-a-century date to tie the knot, and world bantamweight champion Nonito Donaire Jr. and Rachel Marcial made it a big event in the midst of the excitement over the coming Manny Pacquiao title defense.

The Donaires exchanged vows Friday at Notre Dame de vie Mini Basilica in Alabang, Muntinlupa, on a rare calendar occurrence, the 11th day of the 11th month of year 2011.

Donaire himself managed to Tweet before the ceremony, thanking people for coming despite the fact that their wedding date fell on the frenetic runup to the fight between Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez in Las Vegas.

“Today’s the day. I’m really appreciative of those who committed to attending our wedding before Pacquiao’s fight was announced… That means a lot to us. We have the best people around us,” Donaire said.

Donaire and his wife came back one week after retaining his WBO and WBC crown with a decision over Omar Narvaez of Argentina at the Madison Square Garden in New York City.

The couple earlier tied the knot in a civil ceremony on Aug. 8, 2008 in Carmel, California.

“7-7-7 (July 7, 1007) I became a world champion,” said Donaire during a TV interview. “And on 8-8-8 (Aug. 8, 2008) was when we got married. And we decided to hold it (church wedding) 11-11-11. It… signifies great luck.”