CEBU, Philippines - The 14th Philippine Hobie Challenge, touted as the most extreme sailing series in Southeast Asia, kicks off today in Malapascua Island of Daanbantayan with over 20 teams from different countries set to see action.
Led by host Phl, the participants of the five-leg sailing competition are coming from Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Fiji, United Kingdom, Taiwan, Portugal, Spain, Netherlands, Germany, Zimbabwe, and Canada.
This regatta event organized by the Philippine Inter-Island Sailing Foundation, Inc. (PHINSAF) features the Hobie Challenge and the In-Shore series.
The route of the five-leg, point-to-point race includes Malapascua in Daaanbantayan, Santa Fe in Bantayan Island, Cabugao Gamay, Gigantes, Sicogon to Lakawon Island, Costa Aguada in Guimaras, and then Anhawan Resort in Oton, Iloilo where the battle ends on March 23.
The Challenge route distance is approximately 250 nautical miles although organizers may change it depending on the weather condition.
The In-Shore races, on the other hand, will take place only in Malapascua and Bantayan Island. – (FREEMAN)