The 24th Negros Open Bowling Tournament concluded with thrilling performances from local and national bowlers, highlighting both young talent and seasoned professionals. This year’s event was particularly notable for the achievements of aspiring athletes from the Sugarbowl Tenpin Bowling Asso. Inc. (STAI) community.
Young talent shone bright in the rookie division, as Rachelle Nedamo clinched the championship title. Icy Togores-Dulos followed closely, securing second place, and Ivan Ballo Allo rounded out the top three with an impressive third place finish. Lotis Contaoi and Gina Caparas respectively were at a close 4th and 5th place.
The Mixed Youth Division saw strong competition, as Marc Custodio won the championship, with Micco Necessario placing second, and Kenneth Agujo finishing third, while 4th and 5th went to Lance Tan and Ice Villarosa respectively. Their performances underscored the depth of emerging talent in the region.
In Mixed Classified Masters, Micco Necessario continued his remarkable run by claiming the championship in the division. Antonnette Garcia finished in second place, while Brendan Vista secured third, Jack Palermo, Ashton Lorenzo, and Nicole Agujo rounded up the 4th, 5th and 6th places, respectively.
The Open Masters category was dominated by the National Team as Marc Custodio led the way, winning the championship title, followed by Dyan Coronation in second place, and Aldric Bathan in third. Lance Tan and Gj Buyco stood tall at 4th and 5th places, respectively. Their success highlighted the high level of skill and preparation within the national squad.
The Seniors Division featured exceptional displays of experience and skill. Biboy Rivera emerged as the champion, with Ronella Yosores securing the first runner-up position, and Dennis Jalandoon finishing as the second runner-up. Lemuel Paquibot, Nestor Ranido and Minnie Chua shared the podium at 4th, 5th and 6th places, respectively. Their performances were a testament to their enduring talent and dedication to the sport.
The organizers extended their gratitude to several key figures and sponsors who played crucial roles in the success of the tournament. Special thanks were given to Philippine Bowling Federation President Atty. Ed Santos and his wife Nelia Santos, National Treasure Paeng Nepomuceno, and the National Team coaches Joseph Slowinski, Jojo Canare, Reynaldo Reyes, and Orlean Batistil. PSC Commissioner Olivia Bong Coo and PBF Director General Georgina “Gina” Avecilla were thanked for bringing the National team into this competition.
Mentors Bonnie and Girlie Solis, along with world-renowned coach and bowler Biboy Rivera, received special mentions for their invaluable contributions. Major sponsors Davies Paints, BowlerX’s Mark and Flor Hodgkinson, and Nilo Penado, together with the Negros Occidental Sports and Cultural Foundation were also recognized for their support.
The participants who gathered, from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, the STAI moms / youth and all the volunteers were also thanked. Finally, the father and son tandem of Billy and OJ Lopue, were acknowledged for their unwavering commitment to the sport of Tenpin bowling in Negros.
The 24th Negros Open Bowling Tournament not only celebrated the achievements of its winners but also highlighted the vibrant and supportive bowling community in the region. The event underscored the promising future of young athletes and the enduring excellence of seasoned bowlers.*