RP’s top netters to play in Cebu

For the very first time, the Cebuana Lhuillier Men’s Open Tennis Cup goes to Cebu on May 4 to 11 at the Baseline tennis courts with no less than the country’s top 16 players competing in full force for the coveted championship.

RP’s No.1 player Johnny Arcilla, who hails from Butuan City but is now based in Manila, makes up the list of early title favorites that also include PJ Tierro, Rolando Ruel and Yannick Guba.

Another must-see tennis personality who will strut his wares in the week-long tilt is Niño Alcantara of Malaybalay, Bukidnon. The 16-year-old Alcantara is the top player in RP Junior and is also ranked number 70 in the International Tennis Federation (ITF).

“We would like to promote the sport in the country, help the tennis players and find local talents who can represent the country in the international scene. We would like to help the tennis industry as a whole,” said tournament administrator April Toledo in a press conference yesterday at the Baseline Restaurant.

In an effort to inspire young tennis potentials, the top 16 players will be brought here in Cebu to compete with Cebu’s top bets in the likes of Boh Alburo and Mike Quñones to name a few.

Event organizer Jun Toledo said the tournament will feature the singles and doubles events. It is open for players aged 18 years old and above.

The qualifying round will be on May 4-5, while the main draw is set on May 6-11.

Over P100,000 in cash prizes are at stake for the winners.

Registration fee os pegged at P500 per player. The deadline for registration is on May 3. For further details, interested parties may call/txt tournament referee Boy Callao at 0928-3735260.