More events in Bantayan Beach Games

CEBU, Philippines - Several events have been lined up for the 2012 Bantayan Beach Games set on April 5 in the picturesque Bantayan Island famous for its poultry farms, 'danggit' and a variety of seafood products.

This year's edition of the multi-sport gathering includes duathlon, triathlon, oceanman, open water swimming and beach running.

The tri kids will be featured for the first time in triathlon. The off-road duathlon, a bike-run challenge, will also make its debut in the annual undertaking.

The two new events will be contested first at the Bantayan Nature Park and Resort in Brgy. Tami-ao, Sta. Fe. The rest will be held at the Sugar Beach Resort and nearby areas.

The beach run and open water swimming competition, both covering five kilometers, will take place on April 6, while the second and final leg of the oceanman series will be staged the following day. Oceanman is a swim-run contest.

The third and last leg of the Summit Triathlon Team Championship Series will cap the four-day sports extravaganza on April 8.

Triathletes and other adventure-seekers from all over the country as well as some foreigners are expected to take part in the fun-filled spectacle.

“Last year, we have around 50 entries. This time, we are expecting more participants with the inclusion of duathlon and tri-kids aside from the fact that this is the final leg of the Summit Triathlon Series,” said coach Benjoe Gimenez during the event's formal launching yesterday at City Sports Club-Cebu.

Although the BBG will be held during the observance of the Holy Week, the organizers assured that they will not to interrupt any religious-related activities in the entire duration of the competition. (FREEMAN)