ABW Dec 2019 -1

for their relatively poor offshore performance by garnering
a first in the Inshore series. 2004 marked the 5th Hobie
Challenge one of the best challenges ever, taking the sailors
from the icing sugar sands of Boracay all the way across to
Palawan. This marked the largest fleet of Hobies yet - 27
teams from all over the globe. This trip included a visit to
Amanpulo and even an African style safari on Calauit Island.
Now the organisers are preparing for the milestone of the
20th Hobie Challenge in 2020 and are looking forward to it
being one of the most successful challenges yet.
An important part of the Challenge is the Outreach Program,
which provides an opportunity for sailors to give back to the
communities that the race will pass.
A great success
Now firmly cemented into the
Hobie Sailing schedules, organizers
of The Philippine Hobie Challenge
are pointing their sails towards
new and exciting routes. Set on
promoting sailing as a means to
see the eco and adventure tourism
destination that is the Philippines,
they can only promise another
superb event.
Indeed, the Philippine Hobie Challenge is fast growing to be one of
the most exciting and anticipated sailing events in Southeast Asia.
The 17th Hobie Challenge had a major setback when 21
Hobies were lost to depths in very bad rough weather. After
deciding the rough seas were far too dangerous the Hobies
were dismantled and loaded on a boat for the next leg but
were never seen again when the boat sank. But with the
help of Monchu Garcia and his company Rayomar new
hobies were delivered to the sailors at a special Christmas
regatta held at Lake Taal Yacht club. And everyone was back
as strong as ever for the 18th Challenge.
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The Outreach Program
provides the following aid to
the beneficiaries: Renewable
Energy Enterprises Foundation
of Oakland, California (REEF)
provides SOLAR LAMPS- The
remote areas where the challenge
ventures rarely have electricity
and the outreach program
provides solar lamps that provide
up to 8 hours of lighting for
children to study by. Since it can eliminate the use kerosene
lamps, the solar lanterns improve family’s indoor air quality.
The result children are less often missing school; the lanterns
save family’s 30 % of their income, and provide evening light
for families. The solar lanterns are free to families and last five
years.
Indeed, the Philippine Hobie
Challenge is fast growing to
be one of the most exciting
and anticipated sailing
events in Southeast Asia.
EDUCATIONAL SUPPLIES- Giving children these materials will
help them continue learning and reduce the cost to their parents.
MEDICAL SUPPLIES- These contributions will greatly help
community health centers to provide for basic health needs
and first aid treatments.