The Big Dome rocked from the resounding roar of acclaim given to the winning entry by local and foreign cockers as well as tourists who have gathered to witness the 2004 World Slasher 8-Cock International Derby championship, which reached its climax just in time to welcome the sunrise last Saturday.
Starting with a record turnout of 102 participants that included over 20 foreign gamecock breeders during the eliminations, Winning Time Jobo came out from the jousting with a perfect score of eight points. Winning Time Jobo repeated the phenomenal performance of the feathered champions of ace cocker Patrick Antonio who won the championship with a perfect card about a decade ago.
Asked about his triumph, Rudy Salud who was still quite euphoric said, "It was just so totally unbelievable! It is a dream come true." Lito Orillaza echoed the same sentiment. Both explained they have this notion that the best game fowl bloodlines are already in the country today.
"A breeder just has to look for the best rooster and the best hen, put them together and hatch the eggs. From here, select the best chicks and raise them properly giving the best care. At the proper time, provide the best training while keeping them in the best of health. We are both so glad that our formula worked."
The champion gamecocks were raised and trained at the Winning Time Farm in San Pablo, Laguna by trainer nonpareil, Gary Tubianosa.
Runners-up with 6-1/2 points each include Cat Stinger of Peping Cojuangco and Esting Teopaco; Sundance II of Ronnie Puno; and Liza Galore-Firefly of Eddie Araneta.
Also finishing in the money at third place with six points each were Jimafer Mapalad-II of Ramon Mansenares/Jet Fernando/Jingco Bros.; Dada Guam-SL Gapan of Siegfrey Linsangan; Sabong RT 114 JNS 808 of JV Magsaysay; MTJ Bros. of Jun and Marcel Julao; Tos Reyes Old Time Nevada Bumble Bee; LCC Binangonan of Ito Ynares and Louie Cua; Boy Marzos Rod Barro BM Bulalayaw II; PEBR Firefly-IV Bag Pusoy-I of Boy Royo; and, Frank and Pico Berins Mulawin I.
World-renowned cocker and 1994-1995 World Slasher Cup champion Ray Alexander commented, "This years cockfighting event is the biggest in the history of the World Slasher Cup. The entries are the toughest that I have seen in the field. Credits must be given to Jorge Araneta and the National Cockers Association for all their efforts in developing the sport."
Richard McCormick, who raises his game fowls in the mountains of Hamilton in Ontario, Canada, was so delighted in his decision to participate.
"I have just seen the best roosters in the world. These are real gamecocks that continue to fight to the last. You will never find braver roosters than the ones I have seen here at the Araneta Coliseum!" McCormick vowed to be part of the next World Slasher Cup.
The World Slasher Cup II 8-Cock International Derby is scheduled for June 16, 18 and 20 at the Big Dome. This will be the culmination of the 2004 cockfighting season.
The 2004 World Slasher Cup 8-Cock International Derby is hosted by Nene Araneta, Jun Santiago and Ito Ynares. Univet Thunderbird is the presentor of the most prestigious cockfighting event in the country with The Journal Group of Publications as media partners.