Davaoeño paddlers shine in China

DAVAO CITY—The paddling trio of Dirk Quiñones, Hanz Rusty Laga and Joseph Joriz Labang remain in high spirits after being a part of the victorious national team in the 2025 ICF Dragon Boat World Cup held in Ningcheng County, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia, China.

“We were happy to bring medals for the team it was really a great experience for us,” said Quiñones at the weekly Davao Sportswriters Association Forum, Thursday.

Quinones and Laga brought a gold medal in the 10-seater 2000m Men Open, a silver in the eight-seater 2000m Men Open and a bronze in the 10-seater 500m Men Open.

Labang, on the other hand, took three gold medals in the 10-seater 200m Mix, eight-seater 200m Mix and the 10-seater 2000m Men’s Open, respectively and a silver in the eight-seater 2000m Men’s Open.

“Regular practices are still ongoing for all three and the rest of the team in preparation for another international tournament which will be held on the last quarter of the year. They really inspired the local paddlers based here to strive more,” PCKDF Mindanao satellite coach Clarise Calolot said.