GCSOC bets ready for action in International Children’s Games

The Cebu City contigent to the 42nd International Children’s Game arrived safe and sound yesterday in San Francisco, California and are ready to plunge into action in the week-long sports conclave.

The delegation sent by the Greater Cebu Sports Organizing Committee (GCSOC) of noted sportsman Jonathan “Atan” L. Guardo  is composed of lawn tennis and table tennis players. They are the Lagman siblings Jessica and Jacob and the little-known Ariel Jay Torion and table-paddlers Jean Phillippe Jawad Honoridez and Dannel Jay Tormis of the University of Cebu.

They were joined by Philippine Sports Commission executive director Fr.Vicente “Vic” L. Uy, SVD and PSC-7 coordinator Danilo Villadolid.

“I wish them the best of luck and hope they will bring home the bacon,” said Guardo. “The essential thing is that we’re giving our aspiring athletes the opportunity to compete in a competiton of international magnitude. That will not only challenge them to give their all best but also boost their confidence.”

Upon their arrival, the Cebuanos were welcomed by the head of delegation Allan Torrevillas and GCSOC vice chairman Eugenio Gabuya, Jr.  They then paid a courtesy call on Philippine consul general in San Francisco Hon. Mariano A. Paynor, Jr.

Torrevillas said the Sto. Niño de Cebu USA, Inc. through the kind assistance of Hale Concon, Nancy Concon, Rudy Rodriguez, Rita Rodriguez, and Helen Bollozos were responsible for arranging the accommodation of the Cebu athletes and officials. They will be billeted at the University of San Francisco from July 10 to 15.

The ICG is a gathering for a celebration of friendship and sport with 1,500 young athletes from 100 cities representing 50 countries and six continents taking part in the event.

Founded in 1968 by Slovenian professor Metod Klemenc to promote peace and friendship through sports, the International Children’s Games has grown into a global competition and cultural festival. Today, the ICG is the largest multi-sport international youth games and is a recognized member of the International Olympic Committee. – Caecent No-ot Magsumbol