With Tokyo Olympics berth in mind, Blu Girls battle world’s best in Japan

The Philippine Blu Girls set out for the XVI WBSC Women’s Softball World Championship in Chiba, Japan, upbeat over their chances against the best in the world in the elite event serving as a qualifier for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The World Baseball Softball Confederation-sanctioned competition is one of the four exclusive international tournaments staking a berth in the 32nd Olympiad.

If Japan, already seeded in the 2020 Games as host, wins, the second placer will gain the coveted Olympic spot.

The Blu Girls hope to start and finish strong in the World Championship slated Aug. 2 to 12 and carry the momentum to the 2018 Asian Games for a crack at a podium finish. The Asiad will be held Aug. 18 to Sept. 2 in Indonesia.

Making up the Blu Girls squad are Lorna Adorable, Cheska Altomonte, Mary Ann Antolihao, Dianne Arago, Layca Basa, Arlyn Bautista, Garie Blando, Shaira Damasing, Sky Eleazar, Reese Guevarra, Ezra Jalandoni, Sierra Lange, Mia Macapagal, Nicole Padasas, Celestine Palma, Racel Palumbres, Janet Rusha, Cristy Joy Roa, Chelsea Suitos, Angelie Ursabia, and Arianne Vallestero with coach Randy Dizer.

The 16 participating teams from five Olympic continents have been divided into two groups.