Gov Cup Horseshow and Competition opens in Mandaue

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia opened the 2008 Governor’s Cup Horse Show and Competition yesterday at the Mandaue Reclamation Area.

Competition won’t begin until 9:00 this morning but the judging from the looks of the riders who joined the parade – one could see that they are raring to showcase their skills.

Davao’s Andy Tan, the reigning “Horseman of the Year,” and his son Koby, are among those who are eager to go. Also in the cast are Class A riders Jason Estrada and Manny Salungan of Malaybalay, Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro’s Echo Roa.

Cebu has Jun and Francis Miñoza in Class B and Jose Abalos among others.

They will all be competing in show jumping, barrel race today, and Sunday’s obstacle course, in Youth, Auxiliary and Royal categories.

Tartanillas of the different government agencies and cities in Cebu paraded with the riders in today’s opening ceremony. The “Best Decorated Tarantilla” went to the Department of Education with Dalaguete and Aloguinsan winning second and third, respectively.

During her address, Gov. Garcia expressed optimism that this annual event will soon become an international event.

Riders are classified into Class A, B. Youth, Auxiliary and Royal. The latter category is for riders who ride just for fun and don’t compete.

The winners of the 2008 Governor’s Cup will receive specially crafted trophies and cash prizes during the awards ceremony tomorrow. – Marigold P. Lebumfacil