Superstar

This is probably one of the biggest weekends in Cebu sports with three major events happening, but what makes it really huge is the visit of a legitimate international sports superstar – Ken Griffey, Jr.

Ken was here Thursday and Friday to hold three baseball clinics for the children of Cebu as well as those from the neighboring provinces of the Visayas and Mindanao. This was a project of the embassy of the United States of America hoping to rekindle the love affair of the Filipinos with the game dubbed as ‘America’s favorite pastime.’

Although he has recently retired from Major League Baseball after 21 seasons, Ken remains to be the big star that he is, but at the same time, he showed to us how down to earth he is as a person.

I’ve been to a few international events where the stars treat fans like a plague that they avoid at all cost. During an international golf event, there was one player who snarled at the fans, who tried so hard to look for him to get his autograph.

There were those that demanded special transportation and there was one world-famous caddie, who became very popular with the fans as he was very nice to the people.

I’ve also seen local sports stars with egos so large that you can’t come near them. Then last Thursday, I met Ken Griffey, Jr. face to face and although I admit I was awed, I never felt like I was an unwelcome presence around the man.

Yesterday, during the brief press conference held at the Aboitiz Sports Field in Mandaue City, Ken said that Filipinos can really play baseball and have the ability to make it to the big league.

What we just need here is a continuous program from little league up to the probably the semi-pro ranks so we can hone the skills of our children in the game and someday see a new breed of overseas Filipino workers, this time as players in the MLB.

That is very possible and no less than Ken Griffey, Jr., a future baseball hall of famer, said that.

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Before I headed to the Aboitiz Sports Field yesterday afternoon, I was at Plantation Bay Resort and Spa for the Davis Cup tie between the Philippines and Japan.

Since I got there a little late and missed the opening rites, it was a very pleasant surprise to see how cars were already at the designated parking area outside the compound of the hotel and the number of people who queued for the shuttles that would take us to the venue.

Inside Plantation Bay, you would notice that there were more staff assigned at the entrance to meet those who came to watch the tennis event.

It was actually a pleasant experience going there to watch an international sporting event as it proves that Cebu is ready for such events.

If only the heat was more bearable. If you plan to go there today, make sure you bring a hat, extra clothes, water, sun block lotion, and sun glasses. 

The players will provide the great action for you to enjoy.

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MILESTONES: Best wishes to my cousin Josephus Lebumfacil of Toledo City, who is tying the knot this morning with Beverly Segismar at the Sacred Heart Parish Church. 

Happy birthday greetings go to my mistah Lt. Col. Ted Dumosmog of the Philippine Army, Jimboy Quiros, Leodivico ‘Oyel’ Bungubung, Jr., and Pospero Donan, who are all celebrating today.

Advance greetings go to Imma Fermin-Ongteco, Continental air’s Joy Uy, and Norman Aragon, who will turn a year older tomorrow.

More power to all of you!