DAVAO City's table tennis team roster for the upcoming Batang Pinoy National Championships in Metro Manila is now complete, following the recent successful selection tournament at Spin Davao.
Metro Davao Table Tennis Association (Medatta) tournament director Friendee Nuñez said that while the Batang Pinoy-bound players may not have notable records yet, Ashley Manginsay, Arianne Angel, and Azaleah Abrahan, who have previous experience in the Palarong Pambansa, will lead the city's contingent in the sportsfest for individuals aged 17 and below.
Manginsay narrowly edged Abrahan (3-2), 11-7, 11-8, 7-11, 9-11, 11-8, in the cadet girls (13-15) championship match, securing spots for both city team players and the rest of the top two winners in all categories. Irish Patac placed third.
Angel, for her part, succumbed to Kerstin Pescadero, 2-3, in the mini cadet girls (12 years and below) finals. The former settled for the runner-up honors, while Nelrose Banson took third.
Meanwhile, after topping their respective divisions, Apolonio brothers Lauriano and Zachary Apolonio also secured their slots in the city table tennis team.
Lauriano bested Azee Abrahan (3-2), 11-5, 5-11, 10-12, 11-5, 11-7, to clinch the title of the cadet boys (13-15). Ryan James Rufin finished third.
On the other hand, Zachary annexed the mini cadet boys (12-below) title by beating his cousin France Apolonio, 3-1. The third post went to Dan Gleyv Sorongon.
In the juniors boys (16-17) event finals, Christian Saycon crushed Kent Baladad (3-0), 11-9, 11-8, 11-3, while Gevianne Sorongon claimed the junior girls (16-17) crown over Kezziah Fernandez on the same note (3-0), 11-9, 11-5, 11-9..
The Batang Pinoy is slated for December 17 to 22, 2023. MLS