A Sneak Peak at Stadium Sukan Likas, Kota Kinabalu

Ok guys, this will be the venue

The Ponsonby Guys!

Sing Baba's In Action !

Plate's Champion : Singapore Barbarians!

Cup Runners Up : The Borneo Eagles

Cup Champion : Deserving Winner!

Davetalevu with then Sports Minister Datuk Masidi (centre with

cap),Dato' Krishnan Tan (COBRA's President-standing on the left

to the Minister) & Mr. Vela Tan (Sandakan Rugby Club's & Sabah

RugbyUnion's President-standing on the right)

Davetalevu : In Action

The Champs : Davetalevu

A Little Bit Of Flash Back !

What can we say about last year’s tournament? We (everyone in the committee but me :() had so much fun last year and it was one of the best experience we had so far. Of course, my sort of fun, came from observing the game through yahoo video-cam on my desktop, back in the office. It was a little bit of a challenge trying to figure out who the players were as they appeared to be really..really.., small on my computer screen, but hey… even with such difficulty, I enjoyed every bit of it ! The only disappointment for me was the fact that I was not able to meet up with all the guys I’ve been writing to for the last 1-2 years, and came to be with us. We would like to thank you guys for supporting us all the way. There were of course hip cups, here and there, and we would like to apologise for that, hopefully we are able to extend a much better hospitality this year, and deliver a wonderful and exciting experience for all!

Today, let’s check out some photos taken from last year’s event…:)

Mind Your Language ?

English is of course widely spoken in Borneo, however, you might come across one or two who has no idea what you are trying to say.. .. so thought the following will come in “pretty handy”..

Here are some common Malay words & phrases

English Malay
Hello Helo
Good Morning Selamat Pagi
Good Afternoon Selamat Tengah Hari, Selamat Petang
Good Evening/night Selamat Malam
Welcome Selamat Datang
Please Come In Sila Masuk
How Are You Apa Khabar
I’m Fine Khabar Baik
My Name Is {Name} Nama saya..
I’m From Saya Dari
What is your name ? Siapa nama awak ?
This is {name} Ini {name}

Greetings
Goodbye(if you are the one who’s leaving) Selamat Tinggal
Goodbye (to someone who’s leaving) Selamat Jalan
See you again Jumpa Lagi

Directions
How do I get to Bagaimana saya ke …?
Please draw me a map Tolong lukiskan saya peta
Right Kanan
Left Kiri
Straight Ahead Terus
Here Sini
There Situ/Sana
Front Depan
Back Belakang

Asking Questions
Why Mengapa
How Bagaimana
Where Di mana
Who Siapa
What Apa
Which Yang mana
When Bila

Go Shopping
How much is this ? Berapa harga ini ?
Do you accept credit cards Awak terima kredit kad ?
This is too expensive Ini mahal sangat
I would like a bigger size Saya mahu yang lebih besar
I would like a smaller size Saya mahu yang kecil
Do you sell {item} here ? Disini ada jual {item}?

Common words
None Tiada
Many Banyak
Less Kurang
Thank You Terima Kasih
You are welcome Sama-sama
Sorry Maaf
Can you help me pls ? Boleh awak tolong saya ?
Yes Ya
No Tidak

Part 4 : Golf Lovers

This section is dedicated to Golf Lovers. For those who wish to stay a bit longer and tee-off, here are some options;

Ok guys, before I proceed, I have a confession to make, I’m not into Golf, so most of these information are from other sources. As you probably notice, I have nothing to say about these courses. One thing for sure, the Sutera Harbour Golf & Country & Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club & Sabah Golf & Country Club, all came highly recommended from people I know, who love the sport!


Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club,

Location :1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard Kota Kinabalu
Telephone No. +60 88 252 266
Fax No. +60 88 252 211
Email sutera@suteraharbour.com.my
Website http://www.suteraharbour.com.my
Details
Holes 27
Yardage 6562
Par 72
Visitors Advanced booking recommended.
Green Fees
Weekdays: RM230
Week-ends: RM295
Course Designer Graham Marsh
Location Kota Kinabalu
Facilities
Putting Green, Chipping & Bunker Practice Area


Borneo Golf & Country Club
Location : Km69, Papar-Beaufort Highway
Bongawan, Sabah
Telephone No. +60 87 861 888
Fax No. +60 87 861 333
Email reservation.bgcc@vhmis.com
Website www.borneogolf.com( don’t think this is valid anymore)
Details
Holes 18
Yardage 7159
Par 72
Visitors Advanced booking recommended.
Green Fees
Weekdays: 200
Week-ends: 300
Course Designer Jack Nicklaus
Location Bongawan
Facilities
Putting Green, Chipping & Bunker Practice Area

Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club
Location : Pantai Dalit, Tuaran
Telephone No. +60 88 7911 188
Fax No. +60 88 792 128
Email Web Email
Website http://www.99venus.net/m/golf/dalitbay/facilities.php
Details
Holes 18
Yardage 6738
Par 72
Visitors Advanced booking recommended.
Green Fees
RM184
Course Designer E & G Parslow (M) Sdn Bhd
Location Tuaran
Facilities
Putting Green, Chipping & Bunker Practice Area


Impian Jadi Beach Resort
Location : Tuaran, Sabah
Telephone No. +60 88 787 799
Fax No. +60 88 787 775
Email No
Website No
Details
Holes 18
Yardage 7247
Par 72
Visitors Advanced booking recommended.
Green Fees
Unknown
Course Designer Unknown
Location Tuaran
Facilities Unknown


Karambunai Resorts Golf Club
Location : Menggatal, Kota Kinabalu
Telephone No. +60 88 411 215
Fax No. +60 88 411 217
Email Web Email
Website http://www.karambunaigolf.com/
Details
Holes 18
Yardage 6708
Par 72
Visitors Advanced booking recommended.
Green Fees
RM240
Course Designer Ronald Fream
Location Kota Kinabalu
Facilities
Putting Green, Chipping & Bunker Practice Area

Kinabalu Golf Club
Location : Tanjung Aru Beach, Kota Kinabalu
Telephone No. +60 88 251 615
Fax No. +60 88 210 166
Email kgcgolf@streamyx.com
Website http://www.borneo-online.com.my/kgc/
Details
Holes 9
Yardage 3532
Par 35
Visitors Advanced booking recommended.
Green Fees
Unknown
Course Designer Robert Muir Graves
Location Kota Kinabalu
Facilities Unknown

Sabah Golf & Country Club
Location : Reservoir Road, Kota Kinbalu
Telephone No. +60 88 2475 333
Fax No. +60 88 224 997
Email sgcccm@streamyx.com
Website http://www.sgccsabah.com/public/main.asp
Details
Holes 18
Yardage 6928
Par 72
Visitors Advanced booking recommended.
Closure Refer Website
Green Fees
Refer Website
Course Designer Robert Muir Grave
Location Kota Kinabalu
Facilities Refer Website


Others : Lahad Datu Golf & Country Club, Sandakan Golf and Country Club, Shan Sui Golf & Country Club, Keningau Golf Club & etc

Land Below The Wind : Part 3 (City Life), Episode Two

Ok Guys.. I know this is really overdue..sorry.. been really busy lately...

Entertainment & Night Life

For the larger fraction of the population, nightlife still means sitting around over a good meal, having an outdoor barbecue and maybe nursing a drink or two with family and friends. But that is not to say about Kota Kinabalu is a city that sleeps at night. Today, it has moved on with the times, and does have a fair share of happening pubs & discotheques.

Shenanigans owned by Hyatt regency is one of the attraction in town. Winner of the 'Best Entertainment Spot 2000 / 2001', better known as Best Fun Pub in Borneo, this traditional Irish pub offers international live entertainment, speciality cocktails and sumptuous snacks Most tourists however are dissapointed with the ultra pricey drinks in this pub - compared to other pubs.This is probably because Shenanigans is a hotel pub so therefore their drink can cost you a bomb. My advice: across Shenanigans, there's a semi-outdoor pub called Upper Star that sells way cheaper drinks. So i suggest you drink there first before entering Shenanigans. =) hope this helps. :)

Somewhere sitting in the city of Kota Kinabalu, along the Gaya Street road, there's a fast food centre-Sugar Bun. I was told that there's a life band performing there until 11pm and the opening hours is until 2am. Beer is quite cheap here. A 4 cans carlsberg/ heineken for RM15.

Opposite the Promenade Hotel is a short stretch of the KK waterfront that becomes a hub of activity from dusk onwards. It is a popular meeting place for youngsters to hang out with their friends and where office workers converge for a beer after work. For tourists, it is the place to relax while watching the sun going down and eyeing the pretty ladies that may stroll by. :) With a good view of the Tunku Abdul Rahman islands & ships in a distance, it is certainly a very relaxing spot.Go to the KK waterfront at around 5.30-6.00 pm and you shall be amazed by the brilliant sunset with many hues of gold, bronze and vermillion. With the salty sea breeze blowing through your hair, you can't help but feel relaxed. Do be aware that the sun sets very quickly in places near the Equator and so, in a matter of minutes, the whole show will be over. The sunrise is equally special, and the sun rises rather early, at around 6.00-6,30 am. If you are an early bird, you may just catch the pretty KK sunrise. No special dress code, but if you forget your camera, or your memory card is full, you'll surely kick yourself! LOL

After a spot of sun watching, feel peckish or dry? No worries - there are a few open-air pubs along this stretch of the waterfront that serve snacks or you may just continue watching the sun set with a glass of wine or two in hand. The tables outside offer the best view of the sunset and a good feel of the sea breeze. By 7.00pm, these tables were mostly taken so it is best not to be late. But if you prefer a nice & quiet place to wind down, I was told that there's this place called Havana Club at the Magellan Sutera & Spa Resort. This club has about 200 exquisite cigars from all over the world. Just order a drink or two, choose a cigar and puff away in the company of soft music playing in the background !

Karaoke Bars are plentiful in the city to, but only one comes with great seafood. Jaws seafood restaurant & karaoke lets its diners sing their hearts out while waiting for their oders. A superb concept and a great stress-reliever too ! Of course, there are many more places/pub to hang out in the city.., theres.. Bed...(not the one you sleep on..he he he ).. Cocoon.. Cock & Bull.. unfortunately, I just dont know all of them :(....

Best Place to Dine
My recommendations - For those who just dont favor too much seafood.. ..there's this place called Little Italy, right in front of Wisma Merdeka. What can I say.. the food is good.. and comes in very affordable prices !

P/s : Nov 3rd & 4th... where else would u wanna b ?

Land Below the Wind- Part 4 ( Golf Lovers )

Land Below The Wind : Part 3 (City Life), Episode One

Ok guys, this is probably one of the toughest to write about as different people have different views on the best place to shop, dine, and to party in Kota Kinabalu But here are some popular places in town. Lets start with malls ! (Guys, you can skip this section if you want )

Shopping Spree...
There are about six- 7 major shopping malls right in the city of Kota Kinabalu. These malls may not be "world class" impressive but you will be able to find all necessities & luxuries, from local brands to international branded items here. The current largest and most visited mall is Centre Point. It is located on a 4 acres site and has been operated since the early 90s. There are also Wisma Merdeka, Karamunsing Shopping Complex, Warisan Square, Wawasan Plaza, KK Plaza and etc. Although, most of the shops in these complexes carry fixed price items, the goods sold are all reasonably priced especially during mega sales months. Most malls open from 10 am and close at 10pm. The 1 Borneo Mall however is still under construction, and if ready, it will be the biggest mall in Borneo. The Gaya Street Fair, held every Sunday, is also a major tourist attraction as you will be able to find numerous handicrafts and other locally made souvenir items. Apart from that, there are also shops all over the city, and you will definitely find interesting items that you cant find anywhere else but in Borneo. Areas such as Segama, Sinsuran, Asia City, Gaya Street and Api-Api Centre are also shopping areas good for electronic products. The Filipino market is a place to buy handicrafts but if you are looking for authentically Sabahan-made products, then the Sri Pelancongan Sabah shop located at Sinsuran Complex is a good place to stop by.

Most shopping centres offer a variety of different retails outlets and depending on what the items you are looking for, each shopping centre has their own uniqueness.

Antiques- Merdeka complex has the most antique shops. You can find all sorts of items here including old grandfather clocks, watches, colonial hats, irons, potteries and many more.

Books & Magazines-The largest collection of books about Borneo are at numerous bookshops in Merdeka Complex. Books for sale includes culture, wildlife, nature, flowers and plants, many tropical design and gardening books as well.

Branded Fashion Wear-Most brands such as Calvin Klien, Dockers, Guess, British India, Timberland, U2 and etc are located at Centre Point Mall.

Cell Phones and Telecommunications-Many cell phone shops are available in abundance in all shopping malls. KK Plaza presently has the most number of hand phone shops under one roof. If you are here for a longer stay, and wish to use a cellphone, the best is to buy a prepaid cell phone card and you get immediate access. Presently, Celcom has the widest coverage. These phone cards can be purchased on most handphone outlets.

Computer & Accessories-The most complete variety of computer hardware and accessories are located at Karamunsing and boast some of the cheapest prices in the city.

Electronic Items-VCDs, DVDs, Hi Fis in Sabah are considered one of the cheapest in Malaysia. There are many electrical shops located at Karamunsing & Centrepoint

Factory Outlets- These stores are available at Centrepoint and is very popular among visitors and locals.

Sports Gear-Such as runners, hiking boots, and etc are also available at most of the malls. Centrepoint presently has the most varieties with Nike, Adidas, Fila, Reebok outlets. There are also some good fishing gear outlets in Centrepoint & Merdeka.

Watches & Jewelry- Watches are also offered at competitive prices and most of the famous brands are available at most of the malls. Centrepoint and Merdeka have the most variety of branded sport watches.

Food......
One can never go hungry in Kota Kinabalu, and that is not an overstatement! Between Malaysian, Indonesian, Filipino, Western, Chinese, Indian...etc.., there is ton of choices, especially known for seafood, the city has no dearth of restaurants and eateries that serve a wide array of gastronomic delights, from Western to Oriental, American to Continental, Contemporary to Traditional and Cheap to Very Expensive ! Believe me, dining out is an adventure itself!

Go local is the advice to heed for memorable sojourn. A walk through the city streets and alleys take you from one coffee shop to another. The provide a great way for the discerning visitors to savor Sabahan dishes, minus the exorbitant prices charged by major hotels, and experience everyday life amongst residents here. Restaurants, however, offer a wider variety as they are much bigger and cater to a different set of clientele altogether.

Land Below The Wind : Part 2 (Nature Lovers)

Kota Kinabalu is a coastal city that is protected largely by small islands. Its colonial heritage is seen in some old city buildings, but mostly this city is becoming cosmopolitan. With the Kota Kinabalu Airport just 15 minutes away, travellers can get comfortable almost immediately with this coastal city.
http://www.sabahtravelguide.com/mapguide/default.asp?page=kotakinabalu

Mount Kinabalu / Gunung Kinabalu
No trip to Sabah is complete without getting at least to the first base of Mount Kinabalu. At over 4000 meters high, MT Kinabalu is one of Southeast Asia's highest mountains. Visitors can climb up 3000 meters to Laban Rata, a half way stop, before the final ascension. The top of mountain is rocky and jagged. However, realising the popularity of the climb up the mountain, steps have been carved nd ropes installed in particularly steep areas to help climbers.
http://www.mount-kinabalu-borneo.com/

Danum Valley
Danum Valley is located about 80 kms from Lahad Datu on the state's east coast. Touted as the last remaining areas of rainforest in Asia, the Danum Valley conservation area was set up in the mid 80s due to its tremendous biodiversity value. Danum Valley Conservation Area holds over 320 species of trees within one hectare- so diverse is its flora and fauna. Trees up to 50 meters with buttresses encircled by lianas are common to behold here.
http://www.danumvalley.com/

Sepilok
The Orang Utan woudl probably know Sepilok on sight- as this town is internationally known as the Orang Utan Sanctuary. It first started as a rehabilitation centre for young abandoned orang utan to recover and be introduced back into the wild. Today, Sepilok is one of the leading training centres for the rehabilitation of these gentle mammals that are indigenous to Borneo.
http://www.sepilok.com/

Sipadan Island
Sipadan Island is synonymous with being one of the world's best diving sites, the worlds most beatiful underwater sea habitats, and more. An oceanic island rising 600m from the seabed, Sipadan is formed by live coral formations that have grown towards from an extinct volcanic cone thousands of years ago. It has one of the richest marine habitats in the world hosting more than 3000 species of coral.
http://www.sipadan-resort.com/

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary
Located at the centre of the mangrove forest along the coastal land near Semawang Village at Labuk Bay Sandakan, Sabah. For those who love to watch these unique primate not found else where in the world, is a "must see".
http://www.proboscis.cc/

Borneo Seawalking (For non-divers/ non-swimmers)
This is a new kind of sea sport and latest craze thrill in experiencing inderwater with fun. Seawalking allows you to walk the seabed while actually touching marine plants, viewing beautiful corals and starfishes, feeding tropical fishes or simply watching fishes.
http://www.borneoseawalking.com/

Other places of interest
(West Coast)
Sabah State Museum
Sabah Zoological and Botanical Park Lokawi
Likas Bird Sanctuary
Signal Hill
Coral Islands
Orchid De Villa
Gaya Street Fair
Filipino Handicraft Market
Kg Air Night Market
Telipok/Tamparuli & Tuaran Pottery
Kiulu River (White water rafting)
Kg. Mitabang Water Village
Mengkabong Water Village
Dalit Beach
Tuaran 9 Storey Lung San Pagoda
Kota Belud Sunday Market
Rungus Longhouse
Tun Mustapha Marine Park
Mantani Island
Kinabalu Park
Poring Hot Springs
Rafflesia Sites
Australian War Memorial
Sabah Tea Plantation
Crocker Range
Mount Trusmadi
Tambunan Rafflesia Centre
Mahua Waterfall
Sabah Agricultural park
Padas River (rafting)
Murut Cultural Centre
Survivor Island
Mangrove Cruises
Steam Train
etc

East Coast
Turtle Islands Park
Agnes Keith Museum
Gomantong Caves
Rainforest Interpretation Centre
Mabul Island
Kapalai Island
Mataking Island
Marine Parks
Madai Caves
Tabin Wildlife Reserve
etc

Land Below The Wind : Part 1

Sabah is one of the larger states in Malaysia and lies on the northern part of Borneo Island. Once a British Crown Colony, this vast fertile mountainous land gained independence to join the Federation of Malaya. The state's capital city is Kota Kinabalu which lies on the western coast of the state. Otehr towns such as Sandakan and Tawau are located along the state's coastline, right up to its eastern shores, which faces the Sulu and Celebes seas.

Some Important Tourist Info
Malaysia has 13 states, eleven on the Peninsula (West Malaysia) and two, Sabah & Sarawak, on the island of Borneo (East Malaysia). The capital city is Kuala Lumpur, and the new administrative centre is in Putrajaya.

Climate
Warm, tropical climate.

Clothing & Dress Code
Clothing made of cotton and other natural fibres are more suitable. In terms of dress codes, Malaysians wear almost similar clothing style as Europeans & Americans, although modesty is observed.

Language
Bahasa Malaysia is the official language but English is widely spoken.

Currency
The Malaysian unit of currency is the Ringgit Malaysia (RM), which is divided into 100 cents. Currency comes in notes of RM 1, RM5, RM10, RM50 & RM100. Coins are issued in 1 Cent, 5 cent, 10, 20 & 50 cent denominations. All currencies brought into and out of the country must be declared using the Travellers Declaration Form, which can be obtained from entry and exit points in Malaysia. By regulation, non residents are allowed to bring in and out of the country not more than RM1000 at any given time but foreign currencies are not regulated. All commercial banks are authorised foreign exchange dealers.

Time Zone
GMT/UTC +8, which means, eight hours ahead of GMT, sixteen hours ahead of US Pacific Standard Time & 13 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.

Electricity & Voltage
Electricity supply is on a 240-volt AC at 50 cycles per second. Visitors from countries using different electricity voltage systems are advised to bring their converters and adaptors.


SABAH - LAND BELOW THE WIND

Sabah, fondly known as the Land Below the Wind, is blessed with the excellent natural wonders of its islands, beaches, coral reefs, rivers, wetlands, forests and mountains, rich with outstanding biodiversity. Also known as the land of eco-treasures, it has become a main favourite of adventure enthusiasts from around the world, with the highest mountains in South East Asia and the best dive spots in the world.

A little Basics- Where are we ?
Sabah lies in the northern tip of Borneo Island, the third largest in the world. Sabah was named "Land Below The Wind" by maritime traders in ancient days because it lies below the typhoon belt. Comprising an area of 74,500 sq. km. (29,399 sq.miles) of mountainous terrain intersected by fast-flowing and meandering rivers, Sabah's shores are washed by the warm waters of South China Sea on the west coast and the Sulawesi Sea on the east coast.

Sabah is blessed by nature with plentiful sunshine and rain making the whole state lush carpet of greenery. Daily temperatures range from 74F to 90F (23-33C) with cooler weather up in the mountains. There is no marked wet season although the northeast trade winds (Nov to April) bring more rain than usual to the East Coast while the southwest trade winds (May to October) bring rain to the West Coast.

What about the people ?

Sabah is a unique land, with over 30 different indigenous groups speaking more than 80 languages and dialects. Among them are the Kadazan-Dusun who settled mostly on Sabah's West Coast, the Bajau and their kindred groups who settled further inland. All these diverse indigenous groups live harmoniously in an exciting blend of cultures, traditions, festivals and customs.The largest ethnic group, the Kadazan Dusun, make up about a third of the population.

Interesting Fact about the Kadazan Dusun?
They are well known for their unique customs that feature female priestesses called "bobohizan" who perform traditional dances. This annual dance, which is done in a trance, is believed to be in search of spirits during May, the month of "Tadau Kaamatan"/Harvest Festival.

There are a few cultural villages that provide opportunities to observe the traditional life of Sabah's indigenous people and can be reached within a few hours drive from the capital city, Kota Kinabalu. Traditional handcrafted houses, a hanging bridge, farming and processing implements, ritual paraphernalia, handicrafts, music and dance highlight the rich cultural heritage of the Kadazan Dusun in these villages. A must see is the House of Skulls where 42 ancient human skulls hang from the ceiling as "trophies"!



http://www.sabahtravelguide.com/travelogue/details.asp?articleid=31

Lets Learn A Little Basics : Where Are We ?

Known as North Borneo before its independence through Malaysia in 16 September 1963, Sabah occupies the top portion of Borneo (the third largest island in the world) and covers and areas of 74,500 sq km (29,388 sq miles) with a coastline of about 1,440 km (about 900 miles) washed by the South China Sea and Celebes Sea on the East. She is blessed with a diverse landscape of tropical forests, rugged mountains, greenflatlands and pristine seas teaming with indigenous flora and fauna some of which can only be found in this part of the world.

To be precise, Sabah is located between 4 and 8 degrees North of the Equator, and its climate is tropical but pleasant. Sunny blue skies typify most days and it is summer all year round. Though depending on the month and locality, rain may cause a little inconvenience, with the annual rainfall varying from 60 to 120 inches. As a general guide, the wet season falls between November and February. The name "Land Below the Wind" is given to Sabah simply because it is located below the typhoon belt, thus setting the State free from climatic disturbances.

Sabah has a population of 1.8 million with the ethnic Kadazandusun race being the majority followed by the Chinese, Malays and other indigenous groups such as the Bajau, Murut, Rungus, orang sungai and others. Together there are over 30 different races and over 80 different dialects, each group having its own colourful culture, tradition, festival and customs.

http://www.sabahtravelguide.com/travelogue/details.asp?articleid=31

Tournament Fact Sheet

Name of Tournament : 7th BORNEO COBRA RUGBY 10s, 2007 (MEN)
1st BORNEO WOMEN’S RUGBY 7S, 2007 (WOMEN)
(http://www.borneocobra.com.my/)

SANCTION : This tournament is sanctioned by the Malaysian Rugby Union
ORGANIZERS : Sandakan Rugby Club & IJM Plantations Berhad
DATES : 3rd & 4th November 2007 (Saturday & Sunday)

VENUE : Likas Stadium,Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
DRAW : The Draw will be made by the Organizing Committee
ELIGIBILITY : By Invitation
ENTRY FEES / DEPOSITS : US$500.00 (Fully refundable upon team’s arrival)
RULES & REGULATIONS : IRB rules shall apply
SEEDINGS : Seedings will be determined by the Organizing Committee
OFFICIALS : Referees and Linemen will be provided for all matches
BALLS : Adidas tournament balls will be used
ATTIRE : All players must be properly attired
For More Information : E-mail us at borneocobra10s@yahoo.com
PRIZES :
MEN’S SECTION (16 teams):
Cup champions : US$7,000.00 Runnersup : US$3,500.00 Semifinalists US$1,000.00 /each
Plate champions: US$850.00 Runnersup : US$650.00 Semifinalists US$400.00/each
Bowl champions: US$300.00 Runnersup : US$200.00 Semifinalists US$100.00 /each

LADIES’ SECTION (6 teams):
Cup champions : US$2,500.00 Runnersup : US$1,000.00 Semifinalists US$300.00 /each
In addition to the cash prizes trophies and souvenirs will be presented.

INJURIES / EMERGENCIES / LIABILITIES

The Organizers shall not be held liable for injuries or fatalities suffered by players.
However, ambulances, doctors and first aid teams will be on standby throughout the tournament in case of emergencies or injuries. The local hospital will be duly informed to be on standby. Insurance protection for players will be the team’s own responsibility.

HOTEL ACCOMMODATION / FOOD / LAUNDRY:
The Organizers have decided to provide FREE hotel accommodation to visiting teams which should comprise 14 players and two officials (2 persons per room-8 rooms) for the men category & 10 players and 2 officials (2 persons per room-6 rooms) for the women category. Additional rooms will be on the teams’ own account (Please inform us early if required). Free breakfast, lunch and dinner will also be provided during the 2 days of the tournament. There will be an official dinner at the conclusion of the tournament.
Free laundry services (tournament apparel only) will also be provided for all participating teams during the 2 days of the tournament.

Invitation to Participate

Club Presidents


Greetings and Best Wishes from Sandakan Rugby Club Sabah.


We are very pleased to invite your rugby team(s) to take part in one or both categories of our tournament which is scheduled to be held over two days (3rd & 4th November 2007) in Kota Kinabalu in the state of Sabah which is part of the Federation of Malaysia.

We are the joint organizers of the tournament with IJM Plantations Berhad (http://www.ijm.com/), one of our major sponsors.

Since we are limiting the entries to 16 men’s teams and 6 women’s teams, early confirmation would be appreciated so that we can stop sending out further invitations once the quota is filled. We also hope that your club will consider listing our tournament in your annual calendar and make it one of your team’s annual excursions.

The tournament started back in 2001 and is one of the major events listed in the annual calendar of our state’s Tourism Board. It is the showcase of Sabah rugby. Several renowned foreign teams have participated over the last few years including Chinese Taipei, Singapore and more recently, Davetalevu (Fiji) and Ponsonby (New Zealand).

The participation of your team will definitely add greater excitement to our tournament.

The men’s event will involve competition for the Cup, the Plate and the Bowl.

An inaugural women’s event will be introduced this year. To start with, we are targeting only 6 teams but this number could be reconsidered if response make it justifiable.


PRIZES ARE CONFIRMED AS FOLLOWS:

MEN’S SECTION (16 teams):
Cup champions : US$7,000.00 Runnersup : US$3,500.00 Semifinalists US$1,000.00 /each
Plate champions : US$850.00 Runnersup : US$650.00 Semifinalists US$400.00/each
Bowl champions : US$300.00 Runnersup : US$200.00 Semifinalists US$100.00 /each

LADIES’ SECTION (6 teams):
Cup champions : US$2,500.00 Runnersup : US$1,000.00 Semifinalists US$300.00 /each

In addition to the cash prizes there will of course be trophies and souvenirs to take home.

Your team will have to shoulder your own traveling expenses but free hotel accommodation will be provided by us, two to a room. We will also be providing free breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as laundry services during the 2 days (3rd & 4th November) of the tournament.

Free transport from airport to hotel and to the venue of competition and back will all be provided.

A detailed Tournament Fact sheet is attached herewith for your perusal.

For further details please contact :

The Secretariat
Borneo Cobra Invitational Rugby 2007
Wisma IJM Plantations
Lot No. 1, Jalan Bandar Utama, Mile 6, Jalan Utara
90000 Sandakan, Sabah
Tel : (6089) 667721 Fax : (6089) 673640 / 674810 / 667728
e-mail : benno@ijm.com or kimberly@ijm.com
or borneocobra10s@yahoo.com
H/p : 019-883 3750 (Benno Ong – Organizing Secretary)

You may also wish to visit our website at http://www.borneocobra.com.my/