Standard Insurance vies in Rolex China Sea Race

Champion boat Standard Insurance Centennial III skippered by veteran sailor Judes Echauz will be the lone Philippine entry for the 12th China Sea starting Wednesday at the Race Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club.

Echauz’ first race was in 1994 in which he sailed with Nestor Soriano on board the X-119 Lethal Weapon. He has only missed one crossing in 2002 and his best results were in the 2008 and 1998 editions taking the overall win, on his previous boat Sydney 46 Subic Centennial.

Echauz, president of Philippine Sailing Association, is yet to take the overall win on his Davidson TP52, but persevering to get the title back this year will be Standard Insurance Centennial III’14-man crew representing Filipino national athletes.

The all-Filipino crew led by Ridgely Balladares comprises of a variety of dinghy coaches and sailors from various classes including Lasers, 420s and 470s.

“The China Sea Race with Rolex as the major sponsor starting in 2008 has brought prestige to the 565 nautical mile race from Hong Kong to Subic Bay in Zambales,” said Echauz, who was recently an Executive of Year awardee of the Philippine Sportswriters Association.

By the mere fact that it ends in Subic Bay in the Philippines brings honor to the country as the final destination of the long-distance race, he added.