The mark of Z

In the 1800s in California, near the border of Mexico, there was a legendary champion of the oppressed named Zorro who help toppled Mexican dictators.  His trademark was a “Z” which he carved with his sword on his opponents foreheads. On November 23, over a thousand expected runners will likewise have a “Z,” but this will be on their bibs.

Yes folks, the “Z” stands for Zonta International which will be staging a fund-raising run with a goal to construct a center for molested children, battered women and rape victims.  The run which will have a 3K, 5K and 10K distances, is dubbed “Zonta run says NO to violence against women and children,” fires off at the Terraces in the Ayala Center.

Registration starts on Wednesday at the following centers.  Runnr at Ayala Center, Cebu City Sports Center, Athletics  Office, HP Store, Cyberzone, SM City and Pet Station, GCH Building, Tres Borces Street, Mabolo Cebu City.  Registration fees are P300 (3K), P400 (5K) and P500 (10K) inclusive of  an orange T-shirt.  There with  be cash prizes and medals for the top 3 winners (male and female) for all categories.

The race is being supported by the Province of Cebu, City of Cebu, Cebu Chamber of Commerce  and  Industry, University of  the Visayas and Benedicto College.

Tale Of Two Boxers

There were contrasting finish two separate undertakings by Manny Pacquiao and Nonito Donaire. Manny took time out from his training for his upcoming fight with Chris Algeri as he played momentarily while coaching his team KIA  Sorento in the opener of the PBA season in the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.  KIA defeated another newcomer Blackwater, 80-66.

On the other hand, Jamaican Nicholas Walters knocked out Nonito,  in the sixth round to grab the “super” world featherweight title at the Starhub Center in Carson, California.  Walters also decked Donaire in the third round.  We just hope Pacquiao concentrate on his training after his PEBA debut or he might just end up like Donaire.

Shapeup Or Ship Out

Mayor Mike Rama has long complained that CITOM enforcers are unfit.  See their bulging tummies? On one occasion I watched a CITOM officer stopped after only 50 meters while chasing a jaywalker near Metro Gaisano. The CITOM enforcer  ran out of gas.

The jaywalker was in leather shoes.  I met Councilor Gerry Carillo the other day after their biking stint.  I told Councilor Gerry about  plans to hold a 5K run for CITOM and Fire Department personnel so as to test their fitness level.  Actually, this is an idea of Mayor Mike and Vice Ed Labella, a runner himself.  We will soon start preparation for this project.

Mike Stone

When this column comes out, I’m probably streamimg to Bohol to meet former world karate champion Mike Stone.  Mike recently returned from Seattle, Washington where he was a guest at the opening o the Wing Luke Museum.  Bruce Lee’s memorablia are on displayed in the museum.

Mike was undefeated in 92 tournaments and is a contemporary of Chuck Norris and Ed Parker.  Mike has been living in Panglao for then last 30 years.  Mike has appeared in several movies like American Ninja and graced the covers of Black Belt and Kung Fu magazines.

Did you know that?

That Frankie Valli of the Four Seasons composed  “Sherry” the song that made the group famous in just 15 minutes before it was recorded.  The percussion was provided by  banging a piece of wood on the floor because the group could not afford to employ a drummer.