Cebu Blue Marlins to defend title in Speedo swimfest

CEBU, Philippines - After their success-ful campaign in the 2011 Milo Little Olympics-Visayas, the University of Cebu-manned Cebu Blue Marlins take on another challenge as they defend their title in the Speedo G-League Swim Series in Dumaguete City this weekend.

The short course competition is sanctioned by the Philippine Aquatic Sports Association (PASA) with the hope of scouting new talents for the national eam.

The event is divided into five area - the National Capital Region, Central and North Luzon combined, Bicol and Southern Tagalog, Visayas and Mindanao.

Out to dislodge Cebu Blue Marlins as the top squad in the Visayas area include the Bohol Dolphins, Biniyaran Tadpoles of Antique, Aklan Aqua Blades, Iloilo Sea Warriors, Negros Oriental Blue Dolphins, Silliman University Red Snappers, Negros Oriental Golf and Country Club Swimming team, and Capiz Sting Ray.

Coach Rolando Alvarez, however, has already prepared his wards for this new test fielding in swimmers mainly from the University of Cebu alongside University of San Carlos, Cebu Eastern College and Labangon Elementary School.

The Cebu Blue Marlins are composed of MLO record-breaker Michael Ichiro Kong, Noel,Trina and Mathew Angelo Caneda, Marvincent and Langeline Hermoso, Robin Jakobsen, Clarence Israel Ga-bunada, Joshua and Jerose Rosada, Beth May Arellano, Joyce Huguete, Cristine Indaya, Romylin Nina Ignacio, Danielle Mae Ballesteros and Mary Arlette Baller.

They will be joined by Tristan Kirk and Tara Kyla Ebon, Razel Cabajar, and Aaron Grant Embuscado of USC, the Navarro siblings--Anthony Linn, Anthony II and Lyh Ann of CEC and Joebert and Karen Mae Indaya of Labangon ES. – THE FREEMAN