PH sailors Villena, Tayong gun for more than SEA Games bronze

Sailors Emerson Villena and Lester Troy Tayong both fancy a finish far better than what they had accomplished in the previous Southeast Asian Games.Bronze medalists in the men’s international 470 team category during the 2017 Kuala Lumpur Games, Villena and Tayong are driven to better their efforts the last time out when sailing competitions officially begin Monday at the Subic Bay Yacht Club.

“We are looking to do better this time, especially in front of our kababayans (countrymen),’’ said Villena. Villena and Tayong have already familiarized themselves with the calm waters of Subic Bay with Tayong.

After Sunday’s practice races, Villena and Tayong will race for the gold along with Filipino squads in the men’s international 420 team, laser standard, optimist, women’s laser radial and optimist.

Jericko Marbella and Brandhon Kyrielle Aquino will sail in the international 420 team, Roel Batlagan is entered in the laser standard, Eugene Joshua Libot in the optimist while Alaiza Mae Belmonte and Diven-Lhe Angara will represent the country in the women’s laser radial and optimist, respectively.

The fareast 28R fleet racing and match racing team of playing coach Ridgely Balladares, Richly Magsanay, Rubin Cruz Jr., Whok Dimapilis, Joel Mejarito and Edgar Villapana is likewise a favorite to secure a medal in these Games.

The women’s international 420 team will have Rhe Gie Lyn Boyano and Coleen Jem Ferrer as bets with coaches Carmelo Apdo, Benard Floren, Mario Malazarte Jr. and Tonny Tan to call the shots.