The Cebu-based Philippine Accessible Disability Services, Inc. (PADS) Dragonboat Racing Team historic campaign in the 14th International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) World Nations Championships in Pattaya, Thailand was a resounding one.
Competing for the first time in the tournament, PADS accounted for the four gold medals that the Philippine Paradragon Elite Team won in the competition, which was held last August 20-25.
The four gold medals came from the PD 1 and PD 2 divisions of the 200-meter and 500-meter small boat categories.
“We are totally overwhelmed right now to be part of history here at the IDBF world championships. It’s a mission accomplished for the team. It is truly an honor for us to serve our country and bring pride and honor to the Filipino people. May our victory give hope and inspiration to every Filipino despite the adversaries they are facing right now,” PADS team manager JP Maunes told Cebu Daily News Digital.
Team captain Arnold Balais said hardwork paid off for the squad.
“It means a lot for us. Three years ago we were just ordinary paddlers, to reach this stage of competition is the ultimate dream of every paddler,” said Balais in the same report.
Photo credit: Arnold Balais
