Team Boracay emerged victorious in the Bancarera race during the inaugural Bacolod Water Sports Festival, held at the Baywalk Recreational Park in Bacolod City. Enthusiasts from various regions gathered to compete in this event, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship on the 800-meter seafront at the Reclamation Area.
The Bancarera Open Formula Category witnessed intense competition on March 17, with Team Boracay Ibajay from Aklan clinching the championship title and the prize of P100,000. Justin Grado, hailing from Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental, served as the winning rider for the team. Following closely behind, Team KFJ from Eastern Samar secured the first runner-up position, earning P50,000, with Christian Demate representing Iloilo as their rider.
Team Malaysia from Zamboanga, led by rider Rodjie Barit from Sarangani Province, claimed the second runner-up spot, receiving a cash prize of P30,000.
In the Diesel Category, Team Bucoy Beach from Guimaras emerged as the champions, bagging P30,000, with Christian Demate as their rider. Rubido Racing from Barbaza, Antique, secured the first runner-up position, earning P20,000, with riders Bongbong and Eden. Additionally, another team from Rubido Racing, also from Barbaza, Antique, clinched the second runner-up spot, taking home P10,000.
The 1st Bacolod Water Sports Festival aimed to promote sustainable tourism activities in Bacolod City, fostering athleticism, teamwork, sportsmanship, and the appreciation of traditional and contemporary Filipino games. Congressman Greg Gasataya, representing the Bacolod City Lone District, inaugurated the event on March 15, in the presence of Bacolod City Councilor Jason Villarosa and former Bacolod City Councilor Ricardo “Cano” Tan.
The event was organized by ALMANA Group of Companies, spearheaded by CEO and President Richie Neil Corpus, in a bid to support and showcase the vibrant water sports community in the region.