PHILIPPINE NAVY HOSTS CENTENNIAL SEA RACES
Manila, May 18, 1998 - The Philippine Navy's celebration of its own centennial on May 22 was highlighted by a dragon race and a 3-mile swimming competition at the Manila Bay.
Dubbed the "Philippine Navy Centennial Sea Races" and held right within view of the Philippine Navy's facilities along Roxas Boulevard, the events began with a dragon boat race at 6:00 a.m. and followed by a swimming competition from the Luneta Grandstand.
The Dragon Boat Race was administered by the Amateur Rowing Association of the Philippines and saw 17 boats competing, manned by 11 male and 6 female teams.
Objectives of the sea races are: to develop among the public a sense of identification with and pride in the Philippine Navy, to increase awareness of the importance of the sea, and to strengthen camaraderie among sea-loving people.
Silent drills entertained the afternoon crowd at Rizal Park, while scores of Philippine Navy skydivers floated from the clear, cloudless skies.
The Philippine Navy Band serenaded the park promenaders with a concert, held back-to-back with a cultural presentation of the Command Chorale group.
Reported by: Sol Jose Vanzi
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