Philippine Hobie Challenge set to launch

by Business World OnLine on 21 Jan 2009 Sails are unfurled and set as the Fairways and Bluewater Philippine Hobie Challenge (PHC) unveils another exciting week-long sailing journey from Laiya Beach in San Juan, Batangas to Boracay, 9-14 February.

Now on its tenth running, the PHC presented by Villa Maria & Margarita, is dubbed as the country’s extreme adventure sailing event because of its challenging routes, gorgeous island destinations, blue waters with rich marine life, and breath-taking scenery.

'This is an extreme sailing event which will take competitors through winds of up to 30 knots. This is why the world’s top Hobie sailors are taking part,' says PHC Race Officer Jerry Rollin.

The 200-mile, five-day race starts in Laiya, Batangas with the first overnight stop near Tres Reyes Island in Gasan, Marinduque. The second day ends at a secluded and pristine beach in Romblon Island where the participants will stay for two nights. On the third day there will be two inshore races as part of the Seair inshore series and a longer race around the nearby islands.

Day four will see the teams sailing the full length of nearby Tablas Island where they will stay overnight at its southern tip. The last leg ends at the world-famous beach island of Boracay with a set of three inshore races on 14 February to cap off the Seair inshore series.

Teams from the Philippines, Australia, the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Portugal, Hong Kong, Italy, and New Zealand, will compete.

The PHC is supported by Hobie Cat Australasia, SEAIR, Raymarine, Inc., La Luz Resort, Lifeline Rescue, Neil Pryde Sails, Taal Lake Yacht Club, Playa Laiya, Rubberducky, Boracay Terraces Resort, Spot.com, and Synergy Marine Services.

full story: bworldonline.com/BW012109/content.php?id=173