Cebu to host country's first Ocean Canoe

Seeing Cebu as a potential venue for ocean canoe paddling, Island Buzz Philippines will launch its inaugural six-man Ocean Canoe (OC6) in the country this month.

Island Buzz Philippines, a water sports company which in over a decade has been advocating and promoting Cebu to become the "Paddling Capital of the Philippines" through the use of "Bigiw" a traditional outrigger sailing canoe which for many generations has been used by fisher folks, have seen a great potential for the city to host an ocean canoe paddling race.

"We believe that Cebu has huge potential to be a venue for paddle training and racing of ocean canoes, and that this will help promote our islander culture and the art of paddling and canoe making for generations to come," Island Buzz president Buzzy Budlong.

Ocean Canoe paddling is already considered a lifestyle in the countries like Hawaii, Australia and New Zealand, while Singapore and Hong Kong also stages races.

Budlong's project is set to launch the event on November 20 at the Chateu by the Sea in Barangay Punta Engano, Mactan.

They also invited Uncle Kimokeo Kapahulehua a renowned Hawaiian "Wisdom Keeper" who has made several epic ocean canoe voyages to bless the OC6. Kapahulehua will also conduct a paddling clinic to the enthusiasts. —