DESPITE facing the dealings of Mother Nature early Saturday morning, paddlers were able to attack the waters of Tumon Bay to complete the final weekend of the regular season in the IIAAG/GCKF High School Paddling League.
With the low tide pushing things a little quicker than usual, the whole day was pushed to having 500-meter races. At the conclusion of the day, both the George Washington Geckos and John F. Kennedy Islanders proved tough as the two teams garnered several first-place finishes.
In the opening round of the Sotteru Division, George Washington wasted no time turning on the turbines as they cruised to the finish line in 2:03. The Geckos were able to get by their two nearest opponents – the Okkodo Bulldogs and Simon Sanchez Sharks. The Bulldogs finished their race in 2:11, while the Sharks crossed the finish line a mere second later.
Sotteru
Second round action in the Sotteru Division was just as quick, however, it was the John F. Kennedy Islanders who finished with a burst of speed and recorded a time of 2:03. The Geckos were not too far behind and stayed on the tails of the Islanders and clocked in a time of 2:04. Rounding out the top three spots in the second round were the Father Duenas Friars. The Friars finished in 2:13.
The Islanders and Geckos continued to put on a display of strength and teamwork as both teams took first place in the first and second rounds of the Sotteru/Sottera Mix Division respectively.
In the first round, JFK claimed stake to first with a time of 2:16. In the second round, the Geckos answered back and took first after crossing the finish line in 2:18.
In the Sottera Division, the Islanders beat out the Academy of Our Lady of Guam Cougars and Okkodo Lady Bulldogs for top honors. The Islanders completed the 500-meter course in 2:30. The Cougars and Bulldogs finished in 2:33 and 2:34, respectively.
Championships
With the regular season completed, teams will get the opportunity to put forth their best in the final races of the paddling season. Championship weekend for all schools will be held this Saturday at Matapang Beach.
View results for the IIAAG/GCKF High School Paddling League.
