INQUIRER Sports

Rising billiards star Eliod Magpantay kept his winning ways while younger brother and tournament favorite Jonas bounced back into contention after posting his third straight win in the losers’ bracket yesterday in the second day of the 1st PAGCOR-Kabayan Bilyar Aralan 9-Ball Challenge at the Jaca Billiards Hall in Recto Avenue, Manila.

The 17-year-old older Eliod notched similar 5-4 decision wins over Jeffrey Dayaon and Angelo Marcelino to join fellow unbeaten players Lourjay Cardino, Eduard de Guzman, Ronald Cayetano, Allen Decena, Husly Jusayan, Elmer Ranara and giant killer Noel Araniel.

The event adopts a double elimination, race-to-5, alternate break format. It is organized by Noli Sangil Cruz, president of the Lion’s Den Enterprises, and supported by Vice-President Noli “Kabayan” De Castro, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and aims to encourage young billiard players to pursue their studies and also promote the sport among students.

The 15-year-old Jonas, meanwhile beat Christian Rivera via walk over victory, then blasted Jesamine Ventura, 5-0 and J.D. Serdan, 5-2, respectively after a sorry opening loss to Noel Araniel, 5-1, last Friday.

The tournament has a total prize fund of P50,000 with P20,000 going to the champion as well as 10 cue sticks donated by Billiards and Snooker Congress of the Philippines (BSCP) president and long-time billiards patron Sebastian “Baste” Chua.

The semi-finals and finals are scheduled today, after last night’s completion of the elimination rounds.