MANAMA, Bahrain — For Dhela Coronel Solidad, 19 years as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) in Bahrain have been marked by hard work and the sacrifices that come with building a life far from home. Yet, amid the challenges of living abroad, she discovered an unexpected source of strength, not in the daily routine of work, but on the water, paddle in hand and surrounded by a team that stood beside her.
Becoming a member of Hurricane Alpha Racing Dragons (H.A.R.D.) transformed Dhela’s experience beyond merely joining a sports team. It marked a decisive moment in her life, motivating her to adopt a healthier lifestyle, prioritize self-care, and trust in her own capabilities. With each paddle and every obstacle faced on the water, she unearthed a confidence she had previously been unaware of. For Dhela, each stroke served as a reminder that strength is not merely an inherent trait—it is cultivated through bravery, perseverance, and the resolve to continue pushing forward.
Joining Hurricane Alpha Racing Dragons (H.A.R.D.) became more than just joining a sports team. For Dhela, it became a turning point in her life. It encouraged her to take better care of her health, live a more active lifestyle, and believe in herself. With every paddle and every challenge on the water, she gained confidence and discovered that strength grows when we keep pushing ourselves, one challenge at a time.
Starting as a novice, Dhela progressed to secure a position in the team’s official lineup and was subsequently honored as the “Most Improved Paddler.” She attributes her success to her coach, Iyahh, whose patience and guidance have been invaluable throughout her journey.
Moreover, her experience has imparted the lesson that dragon boat racing is not solely about having the most powerful individual paddler. Each member plays a vital role, and every stroke is essential to the boat’s movement. “We are one team and one family,” she said.
The essence of camaraderie was central to H.A.R.D.’s 8th Anniversary celebration, which took place on 28 August 2026 at the Amber Hotel, themed “Paddles Down, Costumes On.” Members, guests, and friends reveled in an evening filled with costumes, games, music, food, laughter, and camaraderie.
Dr. Orville A. Ballitoc, Labor Attaché of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO)-Bahrain, graced the celebration and delivered an inspirational message emphasizing the importance of staying active and prioritizing health, particularly among OFWs who often spend long hours at work. He encouraged Filipinos in the community to embrace dragon boat racing and other physical activities as ways to stay fit, manage stress, build confidence, and strengthen friendships within the community.
Dr. Ballitoc also reminded the participants that sports such as paddling and dragon boat racing are not only about competition. They encourage discipline, teamwork, camaraderie, and a healthy lifestyle values that can contribute to the overall well-being of OFWs.
He likewise reassured the paddler’s group that the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) – Philippine Embassy remains accessible to all Filipinos in Bahrain, and is always ready to listen, assist, and provide support whenever needed.
Dr. Ballitoc, served as one of the judges, together with Ms. Merlyn Masiado, owner of The Beauty Shop Bahrain; Ms. Cecilia V. Ancheta, Filipino journalist and founder of the Filipino Writers’ Circle (FilWrite); and Mr. Renne Subido, Senior Adviser of ALSE OF-LIFE Bahrain, a leadership and social entrepreneurship program of the Ateneo School of Government (ASG) that promotes leadership, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship among OFWs and their families.
The event also commemorated one of the team’s most significant accomplishments, the silver medal achieved at the 6th Barcelona International Dragon Boat Festival – EuroCup 2025 in Castelldefels, Spain. The 16-member delegation, which included 12 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from Bahrain, proudly represented the team on an international platform, bringing honor to the Filipino community.
H.A.R.D. is led by President Fidel B. Bandalan, with Donna Santos as Vice President/Treasurer; Dhela Solidad handling Recruitment and Sponsorship; Charma Valenzuela overseeing Internal Affairs; and Christin Jor handling External Affairs. The sporting team is guided by Head Coach Julie Antonino, with Rodel Badajos as Team Captain and Jeremiah Mañego as Team Leader.
Eight years after its founding, H.A.R.D. continues to show that the strongest teams are built not only through training and competition, but through trust, friendship, support, and a sense of family.
The anniversary celebration was hosted by Ms. Riza Silva and Mr. Andrew Indefenzo.
