A surfer’s leash had caught in the rocks, and she was struggling to get it off her ankle or risk getting towed by the waves. Another surfer immediately came to her rescue, bringing her back to the shore and pulling her wayward surfboard along.
It was a Baywatch moment if there ever was one. And when one hangs out with the Manila Surfers Association, the organizers and participants of the event, such incidents can become everyday concerns. Or in the case of these city-bred swell-seekers who head straight for the beach as soon as work ends on Fridays, every weekend.
There is another story of a novice surfer who had paddled out too far, getting caught in the river-mouth where the currents can be brutal. He tries to make his way back to safety, but the water is too powerful. He waves his arms in the air, hoping his companions at the beach spot him. They wave back, thinking he is just saying hello.
He tries again, his arms knifing through the water, though they feel like jelly by now. He prays that he can make it. And as he struggles, another surfer arrives. He tries to warn him to stop in his tracks. Except the newcomer doesn’t understand what he’s saying and swims forward anyway.
The beginner is rescued by this stranger, who paddles against the strong current for both of them.
It’s not all about the drama with the Manila Surfers Association, though. Just like any other community, they make fun of each other, whether it be about their form in the water, a botched attempt at riding a wave, or the latest girl or guy they have their eye on. They tease the competitors for their ripped abs, cheer them on for conquering the whitewater, and despair at an otherwise spectacular ride suddenly spoiled by the elements.
And because surfing competitions are filled with endless commentary from the emcees holding court at the sand, microphone in hand, these jibes are for all on the stretch of beach to hear.
Aside from having fun, though, these surfers also give back to the community regularly. During the 8th Manila Surfers Cup, they presented school materials and previously used computers to the pupils and teachers of Quirino Elementary School, Urbiztondo Elementary School, and Lingsat Elementary School.
Anyone who wants to make an impact in these beachside communities can feel free to send their donations to the Manila Surfers Association during their next competition. They can join or help out the MSA by logging on to www.facebook.com/manilasurf.
Meanwhile, here are the results of the 8th Manila Surfers Cup.
Men’s Longboard Novice Competition:
Champion: Vinni Sanchez
1st Runner Up: Jay Sueno
2nd Runner Up: Mike Eijansantos
Wahine Longboard Novice Competition:
Champion: Coco Brite
1st Runner Up: Toni Jazmin
2nd Runner Up: Ana Abad Santos
Men’s Longboard Open Competition:
Champion: Philip Santiago
1st Runner Up: Jeremy Ramilo
2nd Runner Up: Kiddo Cosio
3rd Runner Up: Ely Cresencio
Wahine Longboard Open Competition:
Champion: Mia Sebastian
1st Runner Up: Bea Vega
2nd Runner Up: Tin Terible
3rd Runner Up: Jam Choa
Men’s Shortboard Open Competition:
Champion: Seth Tan
1st Runner Up: Rafu Nepumuceno
2nd Runner Up: Vic Gamboa
3rd Runner Up: Pete Domingo
Invitational Division Champions:
Men’s Longboard: Buji Libarnes
Wahine Longboard: Lorraine Lapus
Men’s Shortboard: Lui Tortuya
Wahine Shortboard: Nikki dela Paz
source: interaksyon.com
