As early as May 2022, Bohol Paddlers Association Inc. crews started its preparation for the 1st Dapa Siargao National Dragon Boat Regatta. The first national dragon boat competition joined by the team after the pandemic.
The event is scheduled July 8-10, 2022 to the beautiful shores of Dapa municipality of Siargao, a touristic island, north of Surigao province.
BPAi sent its contengent of 35 strong paddlers including support crews.
Most of BPAi crew started its journey going to Siargao from the Port Tagbilaran noon of July 7th boarded the Lite Shipping Ferry to reach the port of Cebu City. From port of Cebu, the team boarded another boat, Cokaliong Shipping at 7pm to reach the mainland of Surigao and finally boarded another boat to reach the municipality of Dapa. Such an exhausting trip surely.
Upon arrival, the team is warmly welcomed by the LGU. They gave each participants a customised garland necklace. Testament on how hospitable are the people of Dapa.
The team was quartered to Dapa National High School and before the welcome dinner, all the participants of the event was being parade to the locals and all participants are requested to make a cheer. It was fun and lively sight.
On the first race day, our women and mixed team compete with the other 21 teams. Our mixed team made it up to semi finals.
On the second race day, our open crew land 2nd on their first heat and progressed up to the semi-final round.
With all the might Bohol Paddlers gave into each heats, opposing teams were much mightier than them. Though the is goal is to win, it is only a part of a much larger reason and purpose which is to celebrate life to the full, win or loss.
Bohol Paddlers may have loss the competition but they have won the fun and richness of experience.
Bohol Paddlers hardships and struggles wouldn’t be bearable without the support and generosity of its sponsors. Thank you very much.
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