The Hurricane Alpha Racing Dragons (HARD) paddled into their 7th anniversary with style and spirit on September 5 at the Amber Hotel, Juffair. With the theme “Monochrome Madness,” the celebration gathered around 50 participants — teammates, supporters, and special guests, all united by a shared love for sports, community, and resilience.
Among the guest of honors were Charge d’Affaires Bryan Jess T. Baguio and Labor Attaché Dr. Orville A. Ballitoc, whose attendance gave the event a greater sense of pride and solidarity. Other guests included Cecil Ancheta, President of the Filipino Writers’ Circle, and Inge Mitchiell, CEO of Jetpet Global. They also participated as judges for the group presentations, giving the evening’s program an additional note of prestige and community involvement.
In his welcome remarks, Fidel Bandalan, President of HARD, looked back with heartfelt emotion:
“Our teamwork, discipline, camaraderie, and friendship built us. What started as a group of paddlers has become a true family.”
Charge d’Affaires Baguio commended the group’s dedication, noting:
“It’s not just about dragon boating, it’s about commitment, dedication, volunteerism, and hard work.”
He also echoed the words of former Ambassador Anne Jalando-on Louis: “Health is wealth,” emphasizing how HARD contributes to wellness and positive values within the Filipino community.
Labor Attaché Dr. Orville A. Ballitoc greeted the team with enthusiasm and pride, not only as a guest but also as a fellow paddler. Having joined HARD in several training sessions, his message carried both encouragement and camaraderie.
The Labor Attaché conveyed a sense of pride in being alongside the group having observed directly the strength and solidarity they contribute to both the boat and the community. ‘’ Keep paddling forward for your health, your passion, and our shared Filipino spirit’’
Both Ms. Ancheta and Ms. Mitchiell extended their warmest greetings to the paddlers and congratulated HARD on their hard work and commitment.
Coach Iyahh Antonino, recently celebrating her team’s second place achievement at the Barcelona International Boat Festival – EuroCup 2025 last May, engaged enthusiastically in the festivities, infusing the atmosphere with energy, pride, and inspiration. Her attendance acted as a significant source of motivation particularly for newcomers and those gearing up to represent HARD in forthcoming international events.
The evening, themed in monochrome, transformed into a lively occasion filled with laughter, music, cherished memories, and a renewed drive to uphold the legacy of HARD both on the water and beyond.
Dhela C. Solidad, a Board Member of Recruitment and Sponsorship, explained why this theme was significant:
The monochromatic, vibrant colors represented the discipline, equality, and concentration that characterize HARD’s journey.
‘’Amidst a world of color and rainbows, the monochrome color scheme reminded us that strength is in unity, simplicity, and purpose such as the synchronized strokes of a dragon boat crew moving together as one’’, Dhela added.
The Tagura Team received the accolade of “Best in Presentation” at the program, which has granted them complimentary registration for the forthcoming Dragon Boat Regatta Qatar (DBRQ), scheduled for November 25–26, 2025.
As a component of their reward, the Tagura Team will participate in the competition without incurring the registration fee. Furthermore, entire HARD team will be attending DBRQ 2025, marking a significant milestone for the organization to step into another international stage.
The Best in Costume was proudly presented to Amy Calub, who enchanted the audience as Tinker Bell, and Andrew Indefenzo, who amazed everyone with his depiction of The Mask. Their remarkable costumes infused the event with energy, laughter, and a hint of magic, garnering well-deserved acknowledgment from both the judges and the attendees.
Raffle draws added excitement and prizes to the night, attracting great energy and interaction among attendees.
Several individuals were recognized for their excellence in competitions outside HARD, while newbies were officially welcomed to the team, as part of their paddling journey.
The event was supported by generous sponsors whose contributions made the celebration unforgettable: The Beauty Shop Bahrain, Kuzina Restaurant, BEYON, LBC Express Bahrain, Interactive Minds, K Seven Cuisines, Darseen Café and Kabayan Salon.
The evening concluded with joy, collective reminiscences, and a revitalized drive as HARD anticipates upcoming competitions, team development, and contributions to the community. Friends, family members, and attendees commemorated not merely a team but a movement embodying unity, health, and Filipino pride.
Founded in 2018, Hurricane Alpha Racing Dragon is a Filipino-led dragon boat team based in Bahrain. The team promotes teamwork, discipline, wellness, and cultural pride through the sport of paddling. HARD continues to make waves locally and internationally, both on and off the water. The team is celebrated within the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) community in Bahrain, reflecting not just sporting excellence but also a strong symbol of national pride and community cohesion.
