But not anymore. A Filipino is now listed in the book for achieving the longest dribble ever.
The diminutive Erwin Evangelista of Quezon City now holds the “World’s Longest Dribble” record after expunging the previous entry made by African-American Joseph Odhiambo of Phoenix, Arizona during the Revicon Forte Dribbling Challenge last Oct. 28 at the Cuneta Sports Center in Pasig City.
The organizers forwarded Guinness’ confirmation only yesterday.
Contenders
Odhiambo’s previous record stood at 26 hours and 40 minutes, which Evangelista eclipsed after dribbling non-stop for 45 hours, 10 minutes and 22 seconds.
Evangelista defeated 99 other contenders in the contest named Revicon Forte Dribbling Challenge—a nationwide in search for the toughest and fittest dribblers who would take part of the effort to erase the standing world record.
As a reward, Evangelista received P250,000 cash for being the last man standing and another P250,000 bonus for breaking the world record.
The 100 qualifiers from Cebu, Davao, Dagupan and Metro Manila started at 4 p.m. last Oct. 28 and Evangelista stopped at 1 p.m. of Oct. 30 three hours away from making it 48 hours.
Stars
Unlike Odhiambo, who accomplished his feat by parading through the streets of Phoenix while dribbling and talking to bystanders, the qualifiers did nothing else but concentrate on their dribble to conserve their energies.
While the dribblers were busy pounding the ball, organizers brought in various resource persons, including famous fitness trainer Raul Banzon, who talked about conserving energy in exercise.
On the other hand, celebrities also gave words of encouragements through a wide screen at the venue, while pro players like Vince Hizon, Willie Miller, Rob Johnson, Topex Robinson and Jason Webb dropped by the venue to give their support, tips and encouraging words to the participants. (RCM)
