• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The first leg of International Open Water Swim Circuit, a brainchild project of the Department of Tourism – Western Visayas, will be held in Sipalay City in Negros Occidental, on February 18, where 150 local and international swimmers are expected to participate, DOT regional director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez disclosed yesterday.
Rodriguez confirmed that an 8-year-old child is the youngest participant of the Open Water Swim Circuit in Sipalay City.
The first leg of the international swimming race will start at Campomanes Bay Marine Reserve Sanctuary and will end at the Punta Ballo in Brgy. 4, Sipalay City.
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and Mayor Gina Montilla-Lizares have both welcomed the selection of Sipalay City as among the four venues of the international swimming competition, stressing that it will be an opportunity to showcase the area, which is known for its best beaches and dive spots.
Because of this exposure, Lacson said they are hoping the international participants to come back to Negros Occidental, and visit Sipalay City again.
By staging this international swimming competition, Rodriguez said DOT is targeting to establish Western Visayas as a leading destination for sports and eco- tourism, enhance human-nature connection through sustainable tourism practices and community-based initiatives.
The venues of 2nd, 3rd and 4th leg of the international competition, respectively, will be in Sicogon, Island in Iloilo, Taclong Island in Guimaras and Boracay Island in Aklan.*
