4 Cebuanos to compete in Malaysian skateboard competition

CEBU, Philippines - Four Cebuano skateboarders from Lapu-Lapu City under the aegis of Grupo Nopo hope to hoist the Philippine flag with pride as they compete in the Rimba Alam Downhill Jam 2013 in Malaysia this weekend.

Led by Southeast Asian champion John Rex “Dandoy” Tongco, the likes of Jerico Baccay, John Den Escarda, and John Rey Ricablanca are also excited to fight for the flag and country in their upcoming international sojourn.

Before leaving for Malaysia, the group got an added boost from no less than Lapu-Lapu Mayor Paz Radaza, who promised to build a standard skate park for them.

“In my first term we hosted international tournaments, the Davis Cup and the Ironman. Grupo Nopo, yours are extreme sports like longboarding and skateboarding. I invite you to support my administration as we make longboarding and skateboarding an added feature of our sports tourism program," said radaza.

"But first, I don't want you to be riding on the streets. I don't want you to endanger your life as you push your wheels to success. I hear your plea,”  added Radaza.

For that purpose, Radaza said she has already given the go signal for the construction of a skate park at the back of Hoopsdome. The said facility will not only be an area for practice and play, but also a venue for national and international long boarding, skateboarding and even bmx competitions in the future.

“ I know your earnest desire to have a home where you can practice and play your extreme sports. Today, your dream and the wishes of many longboarders and skateboarders in our city is slowly coming true,” said Radaza, who at the same time showed to Tongco's group a sample of the proposed skate park.

“I hope, that by showing you a sample of the proposed skate park, you will join the competition in Malaysia inspired with the thought, that someday soon, you will have your own playground right here in the city. Stand proud as you compete and bring the name of our city in the international scene.”(FREEMAN)