Go For Gold- Philippine dragonboat team triumphs in China

MANILA, Philippines — Just a week after collecting two gold medals in a big race in Singapore, the Go For Gold-Philippine Dragonboat Team brought home another pair of golds from a highly competitive meet in China.

The Filipino paddlers from the Philippine Canoe-Kayak Dragonboat Federation ruled both the 500m and 250m small boat open category of the 2019 Beijing International Dragonboat Tournament.

The Nationals clocked two minutes and 30.85 seconds in the 500m in asserting their mastery over Chinese squads Dubula (2:39.88) and Beijing Fuxing Dragon Warriors (2:41.12) after winning the 200m (1:10.56) in dominating fashion.

It was a follow-up to the twin victories of the Go For Gold-backed paddlers in the recent DBS Marina Regatta in Singapore.

Assistant team captain Ojay Fuentes was ably supported by a solid crew featuring Archie Baylosis, Kim Gabriel Baylosis, Daniel Ortega and Roberto Pantaleon.

Seasoned paddler Norwell Cajes also contributed to the success together with Leo Jane Remarim, Jonathan Ruz, John Paul Selencio, Jerome Solis, drummer John James Pelagio and helmsman Christian Burgos.

“These victories will definitely help boost the confidence of our team going into the SEA Games,” said Go For Gold godfather Jeremy Go, who dabbled in the sport a few years ago.