Huge field expected in Mercedes kayak race

MANILA, Philippines - Everything is set for the very first major kayaking event in the seven island Mercedes Group in Camarines Norte this weekend with the organizers expecting both local and visiting kayakers to join the three-day event with the 15K kayak marathon from Apua Grande to the mainland as the highlight race on Sunday.

“The Mercedes Pacific seaboard is protected during prevailing southwest monsoon rains so we expect good weather and calm waters this weekend, this is part of our annual Kadagatan Marine Festival and everyone here is eagerly awaiting this first-ever water sports event that has attracted teams from as far as Manila and Anilao, Batangas, also expats who have retired and are living along Bagasbas Beach, “ said Mercedes Mayor Alex Pajarillo who wants to develop Mercedes as a major kayaking destination in the region.

The environment-friendly event is the second leg in this year’s Philippine Kayaking Series with the first one held in Anvaya Cove in Zambales won by the tandem of former national windsurfing champion German Paz and Reneric Moreno from Anilao though Paz will not be racing this time and will serve instead on the jury board, according to race organizer Val Camara of the Philippine Kayaking Association (PKA).

“This will be the first time that we are holding a competition on the Pacific Ocean waters and we are looking forward to three days of fun and challenge, particularly for the kayak marathon race, we will also conduct clinics for beginners and will do kayak slalom and a novice 5K race for the weekend warriors who will be there. Visitors can also join the street dancing which will be part of the local festivities,” said Camara.

Interested parties may register on line by visiting kayakphilippines.com or philippinekayaking facebook for details, race secretariat will be headed by Didi Camara, contact numbers are 0905-3322553 or 0919 2455889.