Phl to mount strong bid in Asian Beach Games

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines sets out for a strong showing when it competes in the fifth Asian Beach Games on Sept. 24 to Oct 3 in Danang, Vietnam.

The country is assembling a 100-strong contingent from 11 sports for the 2016 edition, seeking to improve on its three-gold, two-silver, seven-bronze output the last time in Phuket, Thailand.

“Whenever we go out, we’re there for business so we’re looking to win something significant for the country,” chef de mission Karen Tanchanco-Caballero said in an interview on DZSR.

According to Caballero, Pinoy athletes in marathon swimming, beach volleyball, beach basketball 3-on-3, sepak takraw, pencak silat, wrestling, jujitsu, kurash, muay, rowing, and beach athletics are currently in intense training for the 45-nation tourney.

Officials are also busy preparing logistically.

“While we’re seeking support from the PSC, we’re also doing some legwork in trying to tap private sponsors,” said Caballero.

Last time around in the biennial meet, the Filipinos leaned heavily on the exploits of jujitsu aces, who accounted for two golds and one bronze in the overall medal tally. Team Philippines wound up in a share of 13th with Hong Kong as host Thailand ran away with the No. 1 spot with 56-37-33.