THE Congress of Philippine Aquatics Inc, (COPA) caps its three-event Reunion series with the National Finals set for two consecutive weekends starting Saturday at the Teofilo Ildefonso Swimming Pool inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
Chito Rivera said the COPA decided to stretch the competition days to accommodate the big turnout of participants who include students from public schools whose entry fees were waived as the group stresses its commitment to grassroots development.
Batangas 1st District Rep. and swimming legend Eric Buhain and two-time Olympian Pinky Brosas are expected to lead COPA officials and guests in the opening ceremony of the event sponsored by the Philippine Sports Commission, Milo and Speedo.
All winners in the previous series representing more than 30 private and public schools, clubs and associations in Manila and the provinces are taking part in the culminating races.
Eyes are on Nicolai Queen Diamante and Paulene Obebe dominated their age groups. Diamante, 13, has amassed 16 gold medals so far.