"on a shoestring"

As much as we are inspired by the stories of young kids joining the Batang Pinoy Games, we must also know that they are the ones whom we are inspiring and encouraging to give their best in the chosen sports they are joining.

This is what I learn from the young Table Tennis players I had the opportunity to talked with in between their games at the Makati Coliseum.

David and Goliath? Merric unfazed by his older opponent

Father (Michael) coaching son (Merric)

John Merric Bauda (7years old) is the youngest player who joined the Table Tennis games. His father, Michael, a technical official in the Mindanao and Northern Luzon legs served as his training coach. Merric was too shy to be interviewed but his father shared that he wants exposure for his child which Batang Pinoy Games gives. This is a perfect avenue wherein their table tennis practices during the weekends would be tested. Merric is a Grade 1 student of Aguinaldo Elementary School.

Glenn Patrick focused on the game

Glenn Patrick Rey Bailosis (8years old) from Pateros has been playing ping-pong since 2008. Encouraged by his father, he joined Batang Pinoy Games. Asked why he joined, “para po makapunta sa ibang bansa,” (I want to go abroad) to where his mother chuckles. He adds that, “Gusto ko maging member ng Philipine Team” (I want to be a member of the Philippine Team). His mother told me that the games today is a good exposure for the kids. It will develop their sportsmanship and fighting spirit. This is a different experience for them as this is more than practice, they compete with other players from different cities.

Lance Jasper (Pateros) vs Erwin (Makati)

Lance Jasper Villegas II (11years old) came to me when I was talking to Patrick. A bibo kid from Pateros Table Tennis Organization (PATTO) won against Erwin from Makati City (3-1). Asked why he joined, “para gumanda po ang kinabukasan ko sa paglalaro” (So that I will have a brighter future) he said. I can see that this kid is enjoying the games and is savoring every moment of the tournament.

Me with Jasper and Patrick

So far Batang Pinoy’s aim is still on target as we are seeing delegates like Merric, Patrick and Jasper. Their parents and coach are always thanking the organizers of the tournament and the Philippine Sports Commission. I will continue to support the efforts of the PSC and will continue to promote Batang Pinoy Games- LET’S START TRAINING THEM WHILE YOUNG!

This event will not be possible without the support of the following major sponsors: Smart, Maynilad at Summit Natural Drinking Water. Also joining the support are MILO, Jollibee, The British Council, Standard Insurance, Manila Bulletin, Negros Navigation-Super Ferry, Kids 3 Food Supplement, RELIV Now for Kids at Growee Multivitamins.

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Batang Pinoy Games 2011  is a grass-roots development program organized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to identify young talents to be trained for the national pool of athletes. Mindanao leg was hosted by Zamboanga City (Oct 17-30); Visayas leg was hosted by Dumaguete City (Nov 10-13); Northern Luzon leg by Baguio City (Nov 24-27); Southern Luzon by Sta. Cruz City (Dec 4-7); NCR leg (Nov 29 – Dec 2); and the Finals will be held at Naga City on December 10-13, 2011.

Official website: Batang Pinoy 2011

Facebook Page: Batang Pinoy (PSC Grassroots Program)

SUBIC INTERNATIONAL MARATHON 2012 could be my next hal-marathon if my schedule permits. I was invited to the media launch of SIM 2012 and I want to have that 21K finisher’s dog tag. The organizers of this race also organized the successful CAMSUR Ironman 70.3 so makes me think that this would be a very good event.

Of all the things that they said, one thing captured my mind, “THIS IS THE MOST GORGEOUS 42K ROUTE” in the Philippines. We will see…

Here’s the complete details of the Subic International Marathon 2012:

The Subic International Marathon (SIM) is all geared-up in creating a different and more satisfying race event on January 21-22, 2012. Running on its 6^th year, SIM forged new partnerships with CORPS Movement Foundation and Dilaab Movement as the beneficiaries of the 2012 SIM and eXtribe, Inc. as the running event’s co-producer and race organizer.

With Running becoming one of the most popular fitness and recreation activities today and a means to support and raise funds for advocacies and special causes, the 2012 SIM will support development programs of CORPS Movement Foundation and Dilaab Foundation.

“Running has easily become a favored activity because it’s easy and accessible to anyone. But we would like to make a Read more…

If you want to finish the year with a marathon, why not join this year’s

SMDC Quezon City International Marathon?

Not yet ready for a 42K, do the 21K or 10K or 5K….

But wait, all race kits will be entitled for the raffle of 1 condo unit.

So, maybe this is your lucky run

Check the full details: 3rd Quezon City International Marathon

At a very young age of 14, Lawrence Ordonio has taken the hard challenge of life. A boxer since 2003 (year 7), Lawrence can be seen on the boxing ring during baranggay fiestas. That has become his plight, he joins boxing matches to win some money that can help his poor family.

Lawrence is the only out-of-school youth who joined the Batang Pinoy Games in Baguio City. He is from Bgry. Ilokano Sur, San Fernando, La Union. He won over Bryan Quitaleg of Tarlac City even if Bryan is taller and has longer reach than him- pure grit ayt?

Lawrence Ordonio vs Bryan Paul Quitaleg

His story is not uncommon for boxers, we can think of Read more…

“Think of yourself as on the threshold of unparalleled success. A whole clear, glorious life lies before you. Achieve! Achieve!” –Andrew Carnegie

I saw some of our national athletes when I arrive at the PSC Oval Track at Teacher’s Camp. They are not just watching but sharing their knowledge of sports, stooping down at the grassroots level to inspire and teach the young future athletes the proper way to do things.

I’ve seen Arneil Ferreira having a short talk on discus throw. The kids are all ears when the 2007 Southeast Asian Games Hammer Throw record holder (60.47m) was giving them advice.

ARNEL FERRERA gives some coaching to the young delegates

Read more…