The spectacular Boracay beaches in the Philippines are

 hosting the annual Boracay International Funboard Cup, one of the regions biggest

wind-surfing competitions. Besides watching the surfers slalom and tack their way to glory

 (or doing it yourself) you can enjoy various other water and

 land-based activities.

Sails on, prepare for the slalom

The races are free for spectators while participating competitors can go to the

 Green Yard Funboard Center which already includes registration,

practice and the main competition. Price to participate

 is US$125, telephone +63 36 2883208.

 Drop by at the D Mall at Station 2 or Talipapa, near Station

 1 for that cheap beach wear. A US$10 budget and some crafty

 haggling will get you several t-shirts and sarongs to ensure you look the

 part, as well as some lovely bangles to pile

up round your arms and neck.

Boracay Blue Sunset

Where to watch

Just a few minutes’

walk from the more popular (and crowded)

White Beach at the opposite side, the funboard

action all happens on the eastern side of the island

at Bulabog Beach which, at this time of the year, is ideal

 for watersports because of the constant northeast monsoon. The

beach line can get crowded with competitors and gear but it’s really

 fun to watch the ongoing race (and observe the concerned faces of the surfers'

girlfriends who often act as assistants, lugging their boyfriends’ gear).