MANILA, Philippines - The Cobra-PAL Philippine Dragon Boat Federation (PDBF) team bucked the odds and captured four gold medals in four divisions in the 12th International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) World Championships in Welland, Ontario, Canada recently.
The undermanned squad ruled the 200m and 500m mixed categories for small boat event.
“We have once again showcased Filipinos’ inherent world-class talent that we are built to endure, survive and succeed in global competitions. The whole team channeled their Tunay na Lakas para sa Pilipinas (true strength for the country),” said PDBF president Marcia Cristobal.
What made those victories sweeter was that the Cobra-PAL PDBF team competed without some of its mainstays, whose visas were disapproved.
“That the team competed and emerged victorious even without a complete lineup is a testament of their true strength, perseverance in the face of challenges, determination despite all obstacles and resolve in the face of competition,” said Hubert Tan, senior vice president, Commercial of Asia Brewery Inc.
The national paddlers left the country Monday targeting only three gold medals. They bested their rivals from Macau, Hungary, Italy and Puerto Rico to claim the 500m premier mixed crown with the best time of 4:26.942. They also took the senior A mixed title with the best time of 4:53.905. The Cobra-PAL rowers also emerged champions in the 200m and 500m mixed divisions for the Small Boat category.