MANILA, Philippines -- What began as gathering of friends to celebrate a wedding anniversary has now become one of the world's most anticipated windsport events.
The 23rd Boracay International Funboard Cup was recently held at the 2.5 kilometer-long watersports area of Bulabog Beach on the east side of the resort island. Originally a pure windsurfing event, the Funboard Cup has been attracting kiteboarders as well, luring professional and amateur competitors from Asia, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas.
Fierce competition was present at the Funboard Cup but there was also a lot of fun between races and when the winds were not as cooperative, with games such as "Buko Rugby" and a "Wear It and Run" relay,
The pulse of the famed Boracay nightlife then took over at the many themed gatherings. Sunset cocktails, dinners, a fashion show, even mini-Olympic games were organized to the delight of participants and attendees.
At the end of the six-day competition, the Funboard Cup recognized the sterling performances of the winners at a lavish reception at the Boracay Regency Hotel.
Over the years, the Funboard Cup has been recognized by the international media. CNNGo.com, for instance, voted it as one of the "Top 52 Weekend Events Destinations in the World" in 2010.
Asia Spa Magazine listed the Cup among "Asia's Top 10 Participant-Friendly Sporting Events" in 2011, while Hong Kong-based Action Asia Magazine hailed it as "Asia's Best Boardsailing Blast."
The Department of Tourism has also cited the Funboard Cup for its contribution to the development and promotion of the tourism industry in the Western Visayas, saying that the event has brought a significant impact and long-term benefits to the country.
Article source: abs-cbnnews.com
