Author: Roman Dela Cruz

14 Nov

  In the heart of Logandale, Nevada, on November 18-19, 2023, Ray Chargualaf, a proud son of Guam and the Mariana Islands, will embark on a grueling 100-mile race, the Fire Fest Ultra. His story is not just about physical endurance but a testament to the resilience, determination, and spirit of a local boy who dared to push the boundaries of mind, body, and spirit. The Foundation...

12:22 / Latest Post
07 Nov

Embracing Cultural Roots and Forging International Connections: The Chamorro Slingers of Guam / The Mariana Islands         At the 4th Annual World Slinging Cup, two representatives from the distant shores of Guam and the Mariana Islands ventured into a global arena, carrying the legacy of their ancestors in the slings they wielded. Out of a formidable gathering of 50 international competitors, Guelo and Roman stood their ground,...

02:23 / Latest Post
25 Oct

Celebrating Culture Through Slinging: The Tagafest Sling Competition The vibrant Marianas have always been a melting pot of cultures and traditions. Among these, the ancient sport of slinging stands out as a testament to our deep-rooted connection with our ancestors. During a recent visit to Guam, I found myself amidst a bustling sling competition right behind the Fokai shop. To my astonishment, most competitors turned out...

00:25 / Latest Post
23 Oct

Slinging Forward: A Chamorro's Connection to the Past and Vision for the Future         In the bustling atmosphere of the World Slinging Cup in Ibiza, Spain, the duo from Guam and the Mariana Islands, Roman Dela Cruz and Guelo Rosario, took a moment to share their insights on the ancient art of slinging. Their words revealed not just a love for the sport but a profound connection...

00:52 / Latest Post
23 Oct

Marianas' Pride: Slingers Roman Dela Cruz and Guelo Rosario Represent the Mariana Islands at the 4th Annual World Slinging Cup in Ibiza, Spain             Ibiza, Spain – In an exciting showcase of ancient talent and skill, Guam and the Mariana Islands' very own Roman Dela Cruz and Guelo Rosario have touched down in Ibiza, Spain, to represent their homeland at the prestigious 4th Annual World Slinging Cup,...

00:43 / Latest Post
03 Aug

Reviving an Ancient Art: The CHamoru Slingstone Finds New Life in Guam's Sling-Golf Initiative The echoes of the past are never quite silent on the Pacific island of Guam. Among the verdant jungles and azure sea that cradle the island, the collective memory of the ancient CHamoru people is preserved, telling a tale of resilience and survival. One thread in this intricate tapestry is the art...

22:44 / Latest Post
01 Aug

Craft in the Clouds 2: Reigniting Hope, Celebrating Community Spirit On Saturday, July 29th, the second edition of 'Craft in the Clouds' filled The Golden Plaza on Fujita Road, Tumon, Guam with an energizing mix of optimism, creativity, and the strong spirit of the local community. Organized to boost the morale of the community after the devastating Typhoon Mawar, this unique pop-up event was a testament...

02:58 / TheEffect
30 Jul

In an exhilarating display of aquatic prowess, the latest edition of The World Aquatics Championships held in Fukuoka, Japan saw impressive performances from athletes representing the Northern Mariana Islands (NMI), Guam, and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). The men's 100m butterfly was a high point, as NMI's Isaiah Aleksenko stormed the first heat with an impressive win, clocking a time of 54.46 seconds. Meanwhile, in...

09:04 / Latest Post
21 Jul

A Tribute to Remember: Seed Slinging in Malesso, Guam The art of slinging has been given a new purpose in Malesso, Guam. On July 21, 2023, locals gathered for an event called the Seed Sling Tribute. This event was no ordinary gathering, it was a day of remembrance, growth, and unity. During World War II, on July 15th and 16th, 1944, Malesso witnessed dreadful massacres...

01:23 / Latest Post
31 Mar

Roman Dela Cruz, co-owner of Fokai Industries and a proponent of Chamorro culture, has found his passion in traditional slinging. He believes that by reconnecting with the ancient art of Chamorro slinging, we can learn valuable lessons from our history that can help shape a better future for generations to come. I had the opportunity to interview Roman and discuss his passion for slinging and...

06:32 / TheEffect