Davao City Paddling Association Launches Free Summer Program for Young Athletes
The Davao City Paddling Association (DCPA), in collaboration with the Aktibo Dabawenyo initiative and the Davao City Sports Development Division, has officially launched a free grassroots paddling program this summer. This initiative is specifically designed to develop and nurture young athletes in the region, offering them a unique opportunity to engage in water sports.
Program Details and Schedule
The program commenced on April 18, 2026, and will continue through May 31, 2026. All activities are held at the scenic Kalayaan Beach Resort in Barangay Daliao, Toril. The program provides introductory clinics in three exciting paddling disciplines: dragon boat racing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. It is open to boys and girls aged 13 to 16, aiming to foster a love for sports from an early age.
Clang Calolot, a representative from the organizing team, emphasized the program's accessibility during the Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum on April 21, 2026. "Similar to what we conducted during Araw ng Dabaw 2026, we are offering free clinics for dragon boat, stand-up paddle, and kayak," Calolot stated at the event held at The Annex of SM City Davao.
Training Sessions and Participation
Training sessions are scheduled every Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., strategically planned to maximize youth participation without conflicting with school hours. Each session accommodates a limited number of participants to ensure quality instruction: 10 slots for stand-up paddleboarding, 10 for kayaking, and 20 for dragon boat racing. This structured approach allows for personalized coaching and a safe learning environment.
Registration is exclusively open to Davao City residents and is completely free of charge. Interested individuals can sign up by scanning a provided QR code, making the process convenient and accessible. Organizers have reported a strong turnout, with the first two days of training already completed at full capacity, indicating high community interest and engagement.
Program Goals and Conclusion
The primary goal of this program is to widen youth participation in sports, promoting physical fitness and holistic development. The DCPA highlights that paddling not only builds physical strength but also enhances teamwork and self-confidence among participants. As the program progresses, it will culminate in a mini-tournament, where young athletes can showcase the skills they have acquired across all three paddling disciplines.
Vin Gallardo from DNSC/SunStar Davao covered the event, underscoring its significance in the local sports scene. The DCPA continues to urge more young Dabawenyos to join, emphasizing the long-term benefits of such initiatives in shaping well-rounded individuals and fostering a vibrant sports community in Davao City.
