University of Santo Tomas launched its campaign in style, blasting Rizal, 13-0, Thursday in the women’s Club A division of the ninth Summer Grand Slam softball tournament at the Parade Ground of Clark Freeport in Pampanga.
Cristy Joy Roa sparked the strong start with two home runs as the Tigresses rolled to an abbreviated four-inning romp. The Tigresses scored four runs in the first inning and added two more in the next frame en route to the win.
Adamson Alumni also notched its first win at the expense of Chikara of Brunei, 6-5.
“I’m in top condition and just as motivated to play with my former team in high school,” said Roa.
Men’s action also kicked off yesterday with the Philippine Blu Boys facing defending men’s champion Air Force.
The Blu Boys are using the tournament as part of their buildup for the Southeast Asian Games in Singapore next month where they are looking to reclaim the gold they last won in 2011.
Jean Henri Lhuillier, president of the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (Asaphil), expects a thrilling tournament.
“I’m also confident that we’ll be able to discover new world-class talents,” said Lhuillier. “The stronger teams are now stamping their class but it’s good to see a few surprises especially Adamson’s win over defending champion Chikara.”
The Top 3 Open finishers will receive P30,000, P20,000 and P10,000, in that order. There are also cash prizes for the top 3 in club divisions. Cedelf P. Tupas