Army Fights for Survival

Dominant in 2011. Challenged in 2012. Their invincibility finally shattered by a gutsy Lake Buhi team early this year. Then vindicated a month ago in Manila Bay. But walloped by Lake Buhi once again a week ago in Zambales. Such is the roller-coaster story of the Philippine Army Dragon Boat Team.

At the height of their glory, Army sent 7 players to the 2011 Tampa World Championships that saw the victorious Philippine team bag an astounding 5 golds and 2 silvers. They then became the toast of the country upon their return. But what a difference a year makes. Army has since seen their dominance slowly challenged by a motley crew of fisherfolks from Lake Buhi, Camarines Sur.

Early this year, Lake Buhi finally found the antidote to the Army juggernaut. And it has been a seesaw battle since, with Lake Buhi ahead in their thrilling head-to-head duels this year, 2 to 1. And their epic battle will be made more interesting with the entry of yet another formidable foe, the Navy. Thus we now have three equally-gifted gladiators clashing for the right to be proclaimed the dragon boat king of the country.

Army has since reviewed their program. And coach Harold Cabunoc promises that the Army will rise from the rubbles of defeat. This will be a battle for survival for the Army, a battle that will test their mettle to the max. Will the dragon boat gods favor their exalted warriors, the Army? Or are we now witnessing the changing of the guards?

The 2nd Cobra – PDBF International Club Crew Challenge is produced by the Provincial Government of Bohol, the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation, and Tapok Tapok Bol-anon; with Cobra, Philex, Smart Philippines and Cetaphil. Co-producing the event are Lj Lumayag of K & N Productions, Bohol Paddlers Association, Tagbilaran City, and the municipalities of Dauis and Maribojoc, Rotary Tagbilaran and JCI Bohol.

The major sponsors are: Bluewater Panglao, Bellevue Hotel, First Consolidated Bank, TIEZA, and Zoocolate Thrills. Other sponsors include: DOT, Oishi, 2Go, Adnama Mining, Danao Adventure Park, Hyundai, Starlite, Eskaya, Ramasola Studios, Truckworld, Lite Shipping, Island Prints and Cong Rene Relampagos.

The media partners include: the Manila Bulletin, Sports Digest, Philippine Star, Business Mirror, TV5, Solar Sports, Sports Unlimited, BCCTV, Bohol Chronicle, DYRD and Xync.

Watch out for the ‘Battle of Champions’ at the 2nd Cobra-PDBF International Club Crew Challenge in Dauis, Bohol this April 26-30.