By root 
Sabong as a Passion and a Way of Life
Ricky Akay, the owner of Agrias Game Farm in San Fabian, Pangasinan, has turned his lifelong love for Sabong into a thriving enterprise. Growing up in a family where Sabong was a shared passion, Ricky developed a deep understanding of rooster breeding and the lessons that come with the sport.
“Sabong teaches humility and perseverance. Even in victory, one must remain grounded because, one day, we all face defeat,” Ricky explains. For him, roosters are more than competitors; they symbolize resilience and the pursuit of excellence.
Champion Bloodlines for Competitive Sabong Matches
Agrias Game Farm boasts a collection of exceptional gamefowl bloodlines, meticulously bred for top performance in Sabong competitions and betting events:
- White Kelso: Known for its strength and adaptability in the ring.
- Sweater and Roundhead Crosses: A powerful combination of speed and strategy.
- Black Line: Introduced for its aggressive and winning style.
These bloodlines have consistently proven their mettle. In the 2021 WPC 12 Cocks Derby, Agrias Game Farm earned an impressive score of 10.5, followed by an 8.5 score in the 2022 Early Bird Derby. These achievements solidify their place in the Sabong community.
Managing Climate and Conditioning Roosters for Success
Operating in both mountainous and lowland regions, Agrias Game Farm faces unique challenges in conditioning roosters for Sabong matches. To ensure optimal performance, Ricky has developed tailored strategies:
- Cold Weather Adjustments: Roosters trained in colder areas are prioritized for morning matches to prevent performance dips.
- Heat Mitigation: Lowland roosters are kept in shaded environments, with banana leaves used for cooling.
“Proper rooster conditioning is essential. The environment can greatly affect their focus and energy during Sabong matches,” Ricky notes.
Rigorous Training and Health Programs for Gamefowl Champions
Agrias Game Farm’s success is built on a strict regimen designed to prepare roosters for competitive Sabong tournaments:
- Monthly Deworming: Using Verm 4 to ensure optimal health.
- Immunity Boosts: Injections are administered 12 days before matches.
- Pre-Match Conditioning: Roosters are exposed to match conditions gradually, ensuring they adapt and perform effectively.
“Preparation is the foundation of success in Sabong betting. Without it, even the best bloodlines can fall short,” Ricky emphasizes.
Family and Teamwork: The Cornerstones of Agrias Game Farm
Ricky credits his family and team for the farm’s accomplishments. “Support is the key to thriving in Sabong. Without my family and team, none of this would be possible,” he says.
The farm also benefits from the guidance and products of LDI, which Ricky acknowledges for their role in maintaining the health and performance of his roosters.