Ala Eh Oz Goose National Championship: Talisay, Batangas holds largest One-Design Sailboat Regatta

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The Municipality of Talisay, Batangas hosted the largest one-design sailing regatta in the Philippines.

On February 25-26, The event, called the “Ala Eh! Oz Goose National Championships” was held on Taal Lake, fronting the province’s most popular sailing club, the Taal Lake Yacht Club (TLYC).

One design sailboat racing involves sailboats that are of the same design competing against each other in a series of races, ensuring that the competitors’ standings are purely because of skill and not the equipment.

The affordable Oz Goose sailboat attracts sailors across socio economic groups, from beginner to advanced, sailors with or without disabilities, men, women, kids and from regions throughout the Philippines -all racing together. And it keeps on growing and spreading throughout the country.

The Oz Goose Nationals, sailing clubs from around the country fielded teams, these are the Puerto Galera Yacht Club from Mindoro, Subic Sailing from Zambales, and Albay Yacht Club from Legazpi. Competed against them were the TLYC based regulars from Metro Manila, Rizal, Cavite, Laguna and Batangas. Sailability Philippines, the Philippine Paralympic sailing team also fielded several participants.

The Oz Goose sailboat was introduced in 2015 to the Philippines by boat building hobbyists of the Philippine Home Boatbuilders Yacht Club (PHBYC). It is designed as an easy to build sailboat using nothing more than marine plywood, lumber and locally sourced materials.

PHBYC executive director Roy Espiritu is enthusiastic of the Oz Goose’s potential to bring recreational boating to the Philippines.

“The Oz Goose sailboat sails really well and makes for an ideal platform to teach people the essential skills involved in sailing, from weather awareness to basic physics,” expressed Mr. Espiritu. “Racing sailboats is the best way to improve one's skill as a sailor, you have a clear objective that you need to complete efficiently, and have other sailors around you that you can learn from.”

Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas is optimistic of the regatta’s role in promoting the province as a water sports haven.

“Our province is becoming the Mecca for water sports enthusiasts from Metro Manila and Calabarzon, from canoe, kayak, and dragon boat paddlers, scuba and free divers and, of course, sailors on various forms of watercraft,” said Governor Mandanas. “I was told that the participants will also be treated to the rich flavors of Batangas, and the regatta organizers have gone all out to embrace the Batangas theme, that’s why Ala eh! is in the event name.”

Batangas Vice Governor Mark.Leviste also visited us on site to have dinner with us and expressed his admiration of the event saying the world-class sailing competition is fitting for such a world-class province like Batangas, and is keen on exploring on how to further grow and develop the opportunity to boost tourism in the province and encourage more people to discover and participate in both the boatbuilding and sailing experience.

True also that the sailors who competed on the races got to dine on many Batangas delicacies for their breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner during the two day sailing competition. From Tamales to Bulalo, Lomi and a lot more dishes that Batangas is well known of were served to the sailors, organizers and everyone else including Wazzup Pilipinas and other media partners covering the event for their respective media outfits.

To date, more than 100 Oz Goose sailboats have been built all over the country. “Recreational sailing is often mistaken to be a rich person’s sport, but with boats that are easily built from local materials like the Oz Goose, one can have a sailboat for less than the price of a Mountain bike, production kayak or paddle board,” Mr. Espiritu added. “In a country with more than 7,000 islands and great sailing weather all year round, sailing is the best way to enjoy the country.”

The Ala Eh! Oz Goose Nationals would not have happened without the generous support of sponsors such as the Batangas Tourism Office, Pioneer Adhesives, Bara-Ko Coffee, Lakan Heritage Liquors and Broadwater Marine.

“It is great that the Province’s tourism industry is recovering well despite the two disasters that came one after the other; first was the Taal Volcano eruption in 2020, then the COVID-19 pandemic,” exclaimed TLYC Commodore Peter Capotosto. “Corporate sponsorships allow organizers like us and PHBYC to go all out to make sure all the participants enjoy a great regatta, and in turn, they bring in more of their friends to enjoy sailing on Taal Lake.”

We would like to thank the organizers of the Ala Eh Oz Goose National Championshi for inviting Wazzup Pilipinas as one of their media partners, and hope to see them again on the next runs.

The Best Cities to Visit in Germany

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Germany is a country filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. It has plenty of cities that are perfect for tourists who want to experience all that the country has to offer. From the massive city of Berlin to the quaint town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany has a lot to offer. Here are the best cities to visit in Germany, so that you can plan your next trip with ease.

Berlin

As the capital city of Germany, Berlin is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers visitors a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. Some of the top things to see in Berlin include the Brandenburg Gate, which is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, as well as the Berlin Wall, which is a reminder of the city's tumultuous past. You can see the city's many museums, such as the Pergamon Museum and the Jewish Museum.

 
Hamburg

Hamburg is a vibrant port city located in northern Germany that offers visitors a wide range of attractions and activities. One of the top things to do in Hamburg is to take a stroll along the Elbe river, which offers stunning views of the city's skyline and harbor. Make sure you do not miss the Miniatur Wunderland, which is the largest model railway in the world or visit the Museum of Hamburg History to learn more about the city's fascinating past. Other popular attractions in Hamburg include the St. Michaelis Church and the Hamburg Fish Market.

 
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a picturesque city located in the southwest of Germany. Visitors can take a stroll through the historic streets of the Old Town, which are lined with beautiful buildings and quaint shops. The Heidelberg Castle is also a must-see attraction, as it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. In addition, visitors can take a boat ride on the Neckar River or visit Heidelberg University, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Germany.

Cologne

Cologne is a beautiful city located in the west of Germany with a cathedral and vibrant cultural scene. The Cologne Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit the Old Town or the Museum Ludwig, which houses one of the largest collections of modern art in Europe. In addition, visitors can take a boat tour of the Rhine River or visit one of the many festivals and events that take place in Cologne throughout the year.

Munich

Munich is located in the southern part of Germany and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and lively beer culture. One of the top attractions in Munich is the Marienplatz, which is the central square and is surrounded by beautiful buildings and historical landmarks. You can check out the Nymphenburg Palace and its stunning gardens, or take a trip to the Deutsches Museum, which is one of the largest science museums in the world. Of course, no visit to Munich would be complete without a visit to one of its famous beer gardens or the annual Oktoberfest celebration. That is why you could look into informative Munich city tours that will help you see all of these things - and more!

Dresden

Dresden is a beautiful city located in the east of Germany that is full of architecture, museums, and art galleries. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, which was heavily damaged during World War II but has since been restored to its former glory. The Frauenkirche is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is a testament to the city's resilience and determination. Visitors can also take a trip to the nearby Saxon Switzerland National Park, which offers stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.

 
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a modern and bustling city located in the center of Germany that is known for its vibrant business district, a stunning skyline, and cultural attractions. One of the top things to do in Frankfurt is to visit the Museum District, which is home to a number of world-class museums, such as the Städel Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, and the German Film Museum. Visitors can also take a stroll through the Old Town, full of beautiful buildings and charming cafes. In addition, Frankfurt is known for its culinary scene, with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and local specialties such as sausages and apple wine.

Stuttgart

Stuttgart is a city located in the southwest of Germany that is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, historic landmarks, and thriving cultural scene. Visitors can explore the beautiful Palace Square, which is home to the stunning New Palace, or take a trip to the Mercedes-Benz Museum to learn more about the history of the iconic car brand. Other popular attractions in Stuttgart include the Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden, which is one of the largest zoos in Europe, and the State Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of art from the 14th century to the present day.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a city located in the east of Germany that is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks, and beautiful parks. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, which is home to the famous St. Thomas Church, where Johann Sebastian Bach worked as a music director. Visitors can also take a stroll through the beautiful Leipzig Botanical Garden, which features a variety of exotic plants and flowers, or visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an impressive collection of art from the 15th century to the present day. Leipzig is also known for its vibrant music scene, with numerous music festivals and concerts taking place throughout the year.

Germany is a country that is full of fascinating cities and attractions that are sure to appeal to visitors from all over the world. There is no shortage of places to explore and discover in Germany. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country.

Author bio:

Diana Smith is a full time mom of two beautiful girls and a passionate traveller always interested in exploring new destinations. In her free time she enjoys long walks in the woods, hard exercising and preparing healthy meals for her family.

 

UPIS to go for Gold? Perasol eyes double duty for Monteverde as head coach

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UPIS to go for Gold?


Perasol eyes double duty for Monteverde as head coach for both seniors and HS UP Fighting Maroons

In a letter to UP President Atty. Angelo Jimenez, Coach Bo Perasol, UP Diliman’s Program Director for Basketball Perasol endorsed the integration of the UP Diliman Basketball program from high school to college and the appointment of Goldwin Monteverde as concurrent coach of both the seniors and juniors’ program.

In his first year as head coach, Monteverde steered the Fighting Maroons to their first UAAP seniors’ basketball title in 36 years. Last season, he led the Fighting Maroons to a second straight finals appearance.

Monteverde, a champion high school basketball coach when he steered the NU Bullpups to back-to-back UAAP crowns and numerous championships in the NBTC National Finals, PSSBC, MMBL, and Palarong Pambansa, also led NS-NU to gold in 2018 and 2019 ASEAN School Games.

Monteverde, or “Coach Gold”, is also known for producing blue-chip recruits like Carl Tamayo, Kevin Quiambao, Harold Alarcon and Terrence Fortea, among others.

“To ensure sustainability of the program, especially now that UP’s aspirations are high, is to have an integrated and well-coordinated basketball program from high school to college,” Perasol said in his letter.

“We want to recruit players from around the country that will excel not only in basketball but will also survive the rigors of UPIS academic demand. Those young players, with proper training program and exposure, will make sure our program in the UPMBT continues,” he added.

Perasol also assured the newly installed UP President that the UP MBT Management Team will guarantee ample support to its high school squad to make it successful like its seniors’ counterpart, from recruitment and screening, academic support and tutorials, strength and conditioning, skills training, team building, basketball data analytics, improvement of training facilities, among others.

“We hope to replicate our experience in the seniors’ program and elevate the juniors’ program to become more competitive and hopefully to be back in the final four and aim for championship,” Perasol said.

Perasol added that even the current Juniors’ coach, Paolo Mendoza, on his consultation meeting last year also “yearns for such change and supports the integration and the direction of UP’s basketball program in Diliman.”

Coach Bo further emphasized that the success of the juniors’ basketball program will bring more attention and support to other UPIS sports programs like volleyball, swimming, athletics, among others, and expand assistance from the broader UP alumni community.

Once UP Administration gives its go-signal for the integration of UP Diliman’s basketball program, Perasol said it would serve as a big boost for the continued success of the UP Men’s Basketball Team and for the UPIS Juniors Fighting Maroons, so there’s nowhere to go but up.