CEBU’S bowler GJ Buyco capped off his stint in the Youth Annuals 2018 Bowling Tournament with a fourth place finish at the Coronado Lanes, Starmall-Edsa in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday, Dec. 26.

Buyco of the Bowling Tenpin Association (BTA-Prima) scored a total of 1,541 in an eight-game series for his last tournament in the 21-Under bowling tournament sanctioned by the Philippine Bowling Federation.

The University of San Carlos student Buyco had a decent start after making 219 pinfalls to come out as the early leader in the first round. But he hit a snag in the second game with a 142 before scoring 181, 160 and 175 in the next three games.

Buyco had a last push in the final three games with 232, 191 and the day’s best of 241. But it wasn’t enough to catch up with the top three bowlers.

Merwin Tan of Tenpin Bowlers Association of Makati (TBAM-Prima) played steady in all eight games and finished with a total score of 1,711 en route to the boys’ title. Tan flashed scores of 200, 242, 221, 236, 225, 230, 179 and 238.

Gospel Gahol of PBA-Nobleland settled for second place with 1,625 and JB Vargas of MBA-Sariwanok carded 1,612 to round up the Top 3.

The TBAM-Prima also dominated the girls’ division, completing a sweep with Grace Gella taking the top spot with 1,560. Her teammates Noelle Campos and Dale Lazo finished at second and third with scores of 1,459 and 1,457, respectively.

Buyco is currently competing in the 2018 National Youth Championships at the same venue. It’s also his last year for this event.

Buyco played the singles event on Thursday, Dec. 27, while the doubles and team events are set on Friday and Saturday.

As a youth bowler, Buyco was part of the national youth team which graced the World Youth Bowling Championships at the Sun Valley Lanes in Lincoln, Nebraska two years ago. RSC